A NEWLY formed charity group has raised over £300 for a local hospice at its first event.

The Epping Friends of St Clare Hospice put on a bring-and-buy sale with a cake stall, bric-a-brac, and raffle.

There was also entertainment from the Pearly Queen of Redbridge.

The event raised £327 for St Clare Hospice, in Hastingwood, which provides free care to residents in Epping Forest with life-limiting illnesses.

Hospice community fundraiser Vicky Parker said: “Our fundraising groups are a great source of achievement, social activity and friendship building while doing their bit for a local charity.

“It is real community involvement and support which has a genuine impact on the lives of local people who need us at what is often a difficult time.”

The new fundraising group is looking for new members. Call 01279 773750 for more information.

-This Sunday, May 23, the hospice is holding a May Fayre from 11am to 3pm, at its grounds in Hastingwood Road. Entrance is free and entertainment will include live music from jazz group Parisian Swing, street dancing, and bouncy castles.