DUCK racing, children’s laughter and a blazing barbecue made for a successful town fete.

Whitchurch’s fun day held at The Lawn on Saturday saw an estimated 2,000 people pass through the gates and enjoy an abundance of food, games and stalls on offer.

While the final pennies are yet to be counted, funds raised are set to be between £6,000 to £7,000 to go to the All Hallows Church, as well as St Mary’s in Tufton and St James the Less in Litchfield.

Funds will be used in “countless projects” in the community.

Fete committee member Sue Bailey said: “People had a lovely time, to hear the children laughing and giggling and splashing in the river with ice creams and running around.

“It is an important fundraiser but also outreach into the community. The church brings lots into the community.

“We had lots of support from the community who gave us donations for the silent auction and the raffle, people gave very generous cheques or produce or vouchers, people are very supportive. It is wonderful.”

Revellers tried their hand at test your strength and the coconut shy, took part in a silent auction and dance displays were also performed by Mariner School of Dance, Boyle O’Dowda Academy of Irish Dance and the church’s own group Four Fathers.

The fete was opened by special guest, North West Hampshire MP Kit Malthouse.