NEARLY 200 people packed into the Oaktree Arena and dipped into their pockets to raise more than £3,300 for three Burnham-on-Sea charities.

Councillor Bill Hancock, Mayor of Burnham and Highbridge, hosted a charity auction in Highbridge on Saturday (February 16) and auctioned off prizes donated by local businesses and residents to raise funds for BARB Search and Rescue, Burnham RNLI and Litter Free Coast and Sea Somerset.

The sell-out event, which was organised by Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, featured a performance from popular Somerset band, Monopole, magic shows from 'Magic Luke' Perry as well as a raffle and a buffet.

A spokesman for Burnham and Highbridge Town Council said the event was a big success and thanked visitors for their donations.

"The Mayor wishes to thank everyone who attended, donated and gave generously to support the worthy causes," the spokesman said.

"The event raised over £3,300 which will be split between the three charities.

"Cllr Bill Hancock has chosen as his joint Charities of the Year the rescue services of RNLI and BARB along with Litter Free Coast & Sea Somerset as the charities align to the Mayoral theme of Clean and Safe Beaches.

"Mayor Bill Hancock is keen to promote the coastline as a safe place for residents and visitors to enjoy, whilst being as clean and litter free.

"The selected charities work hard to raise awareness of these issues and any funding they receive will help with campaigns, training and equipment."

The three charities will be presented with the funds at Burnham and Highbridge Town Council's next meeting on March 4.