Christchurch's FlowerFest to host raffle to raise money for charities

FlowerFest have announced that the event has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Although FlowerFest does not have a recognised charity status, the event supports a different charity every year.

Founder Glenda Stansbury is looking to reach out to businesses in the hope of raising much needed funds for two local charities.

She said: “Unfortunately this is the second year we have been unable to run FlowerFest in Christchurch due to Covid 19.

“However, the plan is to proceed with a great FlowerFest22 from June 18 to June 20 in 2022.

“In the meantime, I hope to run a FlowerFest raffle and the key to its success rests in obtaining great donations from local business and organisations to show support of the event and to keep the FlowerFest name out there this year."

Although this year's event isn't able to go ahead, FlowerFest have been accepted for an installation at RHS Hampton Court, which will be held from Monday, July 5 to Sunday, July 11.

Having supported Dorset Mind in its first event in 2018 and Macmillan Caring Locally the following year, FlowerFest look to raise money for Cherry Tree Nursery and Christchurch Community Partnership with their raffle this year and their scheduled event in 2022.

Glenda added: “Each year we look to raise awareness of the work of a local charity and a donation is made from the profits to them.

“The community really do seem to love it. It is a gardening and horticultural event, so it is even more prudent now because of the pandemic.

“We have already received some brilliant prizes; The Captain’s Club have been so generous as they always are, as have Yellow Buses and Castle Cameras, but we would love to have more donations.”

Businesses, organisations and individuals have been asked to donate their prizes by Friday May 14, with the draw to made in June.

To donate a prize, call Glenda on 07799 641999 or visit https://www.theflowerfest.co.uk/.