Weldmar fete survives arson attack
WELDMAR fete goes ahead tomorrow, Saturday, after organisers battled with floodwater and fire to save the day.
Caroline Nickinson, director of fundraising at Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, said the event goes ahead in Dorchester days after fire destroyed goods saved for the fete.
She praised the public for rallying round and donating goods to sell in aid of the charity.
The fete, at Joseph Weld Hospice in Herringston Road, had been postponed from its July date after torrential rain left the ground waterlogged.
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Mrs Nickinson said: "The public have been really amazing - we're overwhelmed by the support they've given us.
"I'm humbled by the way they've rallied round and given us so much to sell."
The fire was started in a skip by an intruder early on Saturday morning.
Heat damaged a nearby metal storage container ruining thousands of pounds worth of fete goods.
Police arrested a man and their investigations continue.
Mrs Nickinson said: "The important thing now is for everyone to come along and buy all the things that have been donated.
"We'll have stalls selling books, bric-a-brac, collectibles, handicrafts, things for the home - lots and lots of things to buy."
One of the fete highlights is a silent auction where people can place bids for lots including a walk-on part in the television series Doc Martin.
The prize was arranged by west Dorset based actor Martin Clunes who has supported the charity for many years and attends the fete when work commitments allow.
Other lots include a flight in a Tiger Moth plane, a tour of the This Morning television studios, carriage driving lessons and more than 100 items.
People can place a bid online at the Weldmar website on www.weld-hospice.org.uk or call the fundraising office on 01305 261800.
The fete starts at 11am and features live music and entertainment, a barbecue and more.
A DRAW held at the Dorset 2012 Festival at Poundbury in July and at the Taste of Dorset Awards Night on Friday raised approximately £1,500 for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.
The winning tickets were drawn by celebrity chef Mat Follas at the awards night at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton.
Dee Adcock
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