HUNDREDS of hopping mad hula-hoopers are set to take over a Hampshire manor house in a bid to set a new world record while raising money for charity.

With a stunning backdrop of the Broadlands Estate in Romsey, The Great Hooping for Happiness world record attempt will be raising cash for Macmillan Cancer Support this weekend.

Around 500 will be hoping to collect as much money for charity as possible, whilst also getting their names engraved in history.

Leading the attempt is local resident Dottie Woods.

She said: "As a counsellor I have been in the privileged and special position of working with clients that have been affected by cancer and bereavement for the past nine years.

"Sitting with people in their most difficult days has been an honour that is only given to a few and I have been acutely aware of the importance of the role that I was trusted with."

She added: "As a newly qualified fitness instructor, I was persuaded by Braishfield resident Kate Marshall to take on the Zumba class at Braishfield Social Club. In fact the class was so much fun and a real hoot that ‘Hula Hunnies’ were born

"The group supports local charities by raising awareness and funds by ‘Hooping 4 Happiness.’ This year we have already supported Haven Breast Cancer, Where there’s a Will, Mencap, Cancer Research, Wessex Cancer Trust and Jane Scarth House.

"But, our biggest challenge yet is to hold a Guinness World Record attempt at Broadlands on Sunday 15 October for Macmillan Cancer Support for 500 people!! You may soon see our beautiful posters designed by local artist Jenny Maizels around Hampshire.

"The reason I want to hold a Guinness World Record of Hula Hooping is to say thank you to the people that have shared their stories with me. Thank you to the people that trusted me with their dying thoughts. Thank you to the grieving that allowed me to sit with their grief. Thank you to the people that have shared their healing stories. Thank you to the people that are living with cancer who share their inspiring story’s with such dignity. Thank you to the volunteers I have worked with who give tirelessly to provide an emotional lifeline.

The event will take place on Sunday October 15 from 11am to 2pm. Entry is priced at £5 for adults and £1 for kids. All money will go to charity.

Purchase tickets at: www.eventbrite.co.uk