A NETWORKING event aimed at bringing together the town’s small businesses has raised thousands for two local charities.

The evening, named “The Main Event” took place at the White Hart, in Bridge Street, on Thursday, July 27 and brought together more than 150 people from 17 different businesses.

Live music, magic and a charity auction helped to raise £2500 on the night, which will be split between Andover Mind and Andover Mencap.

The event was co-organised by Let Me Drive You owner Christopher Jackson, off the back of a similar event last year to mark his businesses’ fifth birthday.

He said: “I didn’t want to do another event as I had done the fifth birthday thing last year.

“But I had an inbox full of emails asking if we were going to do another one this year so we decided to go ahead with it.

“We had a really good turnout and the event was heavily supported - I can’t believe the positive atmosphere we had.

“Last year we raised about £700 and we were hoping for about £1,000 this year.

“I was ecstatic and stunned to get £2,000.”

Attendees on the night were treated to a musical performance from local singers Vicki Parkinson and Alex Krupa, as well as a show from magician Michael King.

Guests also enjoyed a “Fun Casino” table before sitting down for a charity auction.

Prizes included the chance to hire a Mercedes from Sandown Mercedes for 24 hours, a £100 teeth whitening kit from New Street Dental Practice and an illustration of the event, draw on the night by artist James Nash.

Iris Andersen, who co-organised the event, said: “It was a great event.

“The biggest thing is that business in Andover have supported this event and that money is going to two really good charities.”