A WIMBORNE charity celebrated a significant birthday with a garden party last week.

The East Dorset Heritage Trust, based at Allendale House, turned 25 with a garden party and afternoon tea on the lawn.

Visitors were greeted by prominent historical figure Charles Castleman – brought to life by Wimborne Community Theatre’s Tony Horitz – who is best-known for bringing the railway to Wimborne in the 19th century.

Trust manager Sarah Evans said: “We really did have a wonderful day.

“We were delighted to have Tony playing Charles Castleman – we thought it would add a different dimension to the event.”

Wimborne mayor Andy Hampton and chairman of the district council Cllr Malcolm Birr visited the house for the occasion.

Sarah said: “It was a very pleasant event, and the sun was shining too, which made it even better.

“We were delighted to have the mayor and the district council chair with us for the afternoon.”

Members of the Dorset Rural Musical School performed in the afternoon before Sarah and trust chairman Cllr Derek Burt cut a celebratory cake.

The trust, patronised by Professor David Bellamy OBE and Sir Tim Berners-Lee, aims to create interest in the landscape, wildlife and archaeology of Wimborne, as well as developing new approaches to environmental education.