In the picturesque setting of Bere Mill Farm in Whitchurch, families from across Hampshire and beyond delighted in a taste of ‘normality’ on Sunday (June 27) at the annual Country and Garden Festival.

The outdoor event, which was raising money for the Hampshire Medical Fund’s campaign to buy Resuscitaire machines for hospitals in Basingstoke, Andover and Winchester, offered something for everyone - from gardening stalls and workshops, to children’s activities, craft areas, food outlets, and live music.

Now in its sixth year in its current form - having “morphed” from longer-running events - the charity festival raised an astonishing £37,000 at its launch night alone. Organisers hope to buy the life-saving equipment needing replaced at the facilities run by Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust, which cost £11,000 per unit.

The event was organised by a committee of around 10 people, headed by Lucy Liddell, and the Hampshire Medical Fund - with more than 160 volunteers drafted in for the day itself - some of whom have been helping at a version of it for around 12 years.

Walking around the colourful festival, there was so much to see, from animal petting with Furlock Holmes, to traditional music from Head North band, and from garden design demonstrations with Jameson Stamp, to a traditional dog show with categories including ‘Most like their owner’ and ‘Best tail wag’.

For children who have spent months indoors, it was an opportunity to meet other young people and have some fun with activities organised by committee member Rosie Mckinley.

William and Oliver Thomas were among the excited youngsters queueing to hold a snake. Mum, Caroline, said: “I was so exciting when they said it was happening, it’s so nice for the children.”

Franscesca Chatburn, charity director at HMF, added: “Events are one of the main ways for us to raise money. Last year was a massive blow, so the biggest thing for us is that we are so happy that we got the go ahead”.

Sponsors included JM Finn, Fowler Architecture, NFU Mutual, G&K Boyes Charitable Trust, Phillimore Trust and Candover clinic.

Overall, it was a wonderful day - with even the weather chiefs smiling down upon it!

To donate £5, text HMFGF to 70450.