Barton Bendish community raises thousands in art-full event

Some 400 visitors passed though the doors of Barton Bendish village hall and St Andrews and Eastmoor church at the weekend.

The event had 18 tables of art and craft and some 47 art exhibitors.

Friday's preview evening provided wine and nibbles and the refreshments were sponsored by Hylton Gott.

In tribute to Maurice Cornelius who died and who was a contributor to past fairs, his fabric covered boxes were sold in his memory. With 83 being purchased the proceeds will go to The British Heart foundation and Cancer Research UK.

A final total of funds raised has yet to be specified with a speculativice figure of more than £3000 from the event.

A quarter of this is planned to be donated to the Alzeimer's Society with remaining funds being invested in to the refurbishment and restoration of the village hall and church.

Part of the organising team , Liz Stevens said: "It was a tremendous success, we had more exhibitors this year than before.

"This is our 11th event and the last one was in 2019. It was about getting the community together after the terrible time we've all had as it was about fundraising and what a magnificent effort it was.

"With volunteers and helpers moving furniture, putting up marquees, setting out tables and stands it was a team effort.

"A special mention to Maurice Cornelius whose friend offered to bring all his boxes as sadly he wasn't there. We had a biography and photograph and many people bought a box to remember him by."