NEW stallholders swelled the good causes represented at Haslemere’s 34th annual Charities Fair which raised an impressive £5,244.

Town mayor Malcolm Carter opened the event, which is organised by the premature baby charity BLISS, and Haslemere town crier Christian Ashdown proceded down the High Street to relay the news to one and all.

BLISS chairman and fair organiser Dianne Bennett said: “Some charities reported record takings.

“New stallholders this time were the Dogs Trust, Hunter Centre, River Wey Trust Act and one of the mayor’s charities, the Penny Ha’penny Trust.

“Many other groups have regularly taken part since the fair started 34 years ago.

“It is so gratifying for the charities when visitors take an interest in their work and everyone is eager to explain what they do and why. Most charities sold goods to raise funds and were very pleased with their takings. Some were there just to raise awareness about their work.

“BLISS would like to thank everyone who came and supported the fair, with a special mention to Stricklands Dental Fitness Centre for sponsoring publicity, town councillor Melanie Odell and former mayor Brian Howard for the tables, Camelsdale School for collecting entry donations, and Haslemere Hall manager Howard Bicknell.

“Thanks, too, for the many generous donations of prizes for BLISS Grand Draw.”

The star prize of a spa day for two at Champneys Forest Mere, at Liphook, was won by a delighted Ruth Holden from the Cancer Research stall.