IN the week which saw temperatures soar to the hottest on record, the Co-operative Food store in Wrecclesham began its fundraising week, raising £1,600 for charity partner Brightwells Gostrey.

The Brightwells Gostrey group offers a range of social activities, companionship and support to older people living in Farnham.

Southern Co-op challenged its stores to raise as much money as possible for their chosen charity during its charity awareness week, with the winning store receiving an additional £10,000 on top of the total raised.

It was said to be a “week of fundraising madness” – from a traditional bake sale on July 22; to a 112-mile static bike ride outside the store with participants dressed as gorillas, rabbits and clowns; an ice bucket challenge; they had support from Surrey Dance Fitness which donated the proceeds from its weekly class at Brightwells; and The Greatest Showman coming to town.

The week ended with a charity quiz and curry night hosted by the Conservative Club, which included a meal by caterers Sprinkle of Saffron.

Guests also took part in a raffle with prizes donated by a number of businesses.