VOLUNTARY groups from across Basingstoke gathered in the heart of the town for a special event to raise awareness and funds for their worthy causes.

Organisations, including the Wessex Cancer Trust, CLIC Sargent and Relate, laid on the 17 stalls at last week's charity fair in Castle Square, The Malls.

The stalls sold items such as toys and wristbands, and gave advice to people interested in becoming volunteers.

Pat Butler, of Basingstoke Voluntary Services, organised the event and was pleased with its success.

She said: "Everybody says it's a very successful event. Some groups have recruited volunteers and made lots of money."

Joan Ayton, 62, from the Basingstoke Volunteer Bureau, was presented with a shield for the best stall by borough mayor Councillor Paula Baker. The bureau helps people who want to get involved in volunteering find the right opportunities for their skills.

Mrs Ayton said she was "gobsmacked" - although she nearly missed the presentation because she did not expect to win and went to use the toilets.

Liz Van Rooyen, 46, dressed in bright pink to help run a stall for the Basingstoke Breast Cancer Self Help Group. She said: "Nearly everyone knows someone with breast cancer and even if we just raise awareness of our support group it's very useful."

First published: Wednesday, June 8, 2005