LAST month, two local bowling clubs came together for an annual charity match in aid of Andover’s Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

The bowls match between the St Mary Bourne and Andover bowling clubs was held on August 15, and saw players compete for a trophy, as well as enjoying refreshments and taking part in a raffle and auction in aid of the cause.

The event was opened by Sarah McGaughey, clinical matron at the Countess of Brecknockshire Hospice and, alongside a car boot sale, raised an amazing £1,040 for the facility at Andover War Memorial Hospital on Charlton Road.

John Booth, St Mary Bourne team captain on the day, told the Advertiser: “It was a lovely day, and we raised a lot of money.

“I would like to thank all the businesses who contributed.”

John gave a special mention to pubs The George Inn in St Mary Bourne and The Lion at Clanville, for each donating a voucher, as well as supermarkets Waitrose, Asda and Tesco for their raffle donations.

He also thanked club member Lesley Taft “for all her hard work arranging a great raffle”.

The St Mary Bourne team reclaimed the trophy, but all participants agreed it had been a wonderful charitable event.