MEMBERS of the Widemouth Bay Friday Group raised £400 to be divided equally between the League of Friends Hospice Care, Stratton Hospital and the Longhouse, Holsworthy, that some residents of Widemouth Bay attend.

Preparations took the form of making bird feeders, knitted hats and slippers, handmade Christmas ornaments and cards — to name but a few items.

The charity afternoon was well attended on Thursday, August 17 in Widemouth church grounds, the interests of both old and young being catered for.

Stalls included a tombola, bric-a-brac, craft, splat the rat, toys and a bookstall, with cream teas, coffee and cake being served in the Summerhouse. This year, an ice cream stall proved to be very popular, as did ‘guess the number of sweets in a jar’ and ‘name the doll’!

People were able to relax and socialise in the sunshine during a very enjoyable afternoon.

Thanks go to Mike, Peter and Judy for erecting the marquees earlier in the day. Also a big thank you must go to Hilda, Hazel, Carol, Jan, Jann, Margaret and Fiona, for giving their time to such a valuable cause.

The money will help provide those who attend the Longhouse with treatments, such as massage, aromatherapy and manicures, whilst the share received by the League of Friends will help fund the hospice beds at Stratton Hospital.

Many local residents have used the services of both facilities. As a community, the group wished to show their support for all the hard work and support both offered to patients and their families alike.

Developing a positive feel good factor in those bravely fighting terminal illness is vital.