REGULARS at the Rowbarge pub in St John’s have come together to help raise more than £4,000 in memory of three friends from the area who had all been looked after by Woking & Sam Beare Hospice.

Friends and family of Colin Newman, Barbara Hatch and Melvyn Duncalfe joined each other for a charity clay pigeon shoot at Woodlands Pursuit in Reigate where, fortified by a welcome bacon butty, they set off to test their skills.

Val Carcary, who organised the day, was delighted to see how much everyone had enjoyed the experience and thanked the instructors who generously gave up their time to help make the day a success.

The camaraderie continued as everyone went back to the Rowbarge to listen to live music by Amy and Ash and enjoy some delicious home baking by Babara Langford, alongside a raffle and auction.

The atmosphere was amazing as locals bid on a selection of prizes ranging from gift vouchers from local businesses right up to six tradesmen offering a complimentary day of their time.

Auctioneers Peter and Pete did a great job of inspiring the crowd to raise more than £1,500. 

This, along with £1,200 in raffle tickets and the shooting party donations, raised a grand total of £4,100.

“To say our regulars at the Rowbarge were generous is an understatement. They were all terrific,” said Val.

“My fellow committee members Julian, Lavina, Peter, Jason, Bob, Steve and Andy went above and beyond. 

“And a huge thank you to our local companies and village shops who donated items to help make this event the amazing success that it was.”

Kerry Gibb said: “The hospice is hugely grateful to Val and everyone who was part of this fabulous fundraiser. 

“The £4,100 they have donated will provide 216 hours of patient care on the hospice ward.”