AN Ilminster garden party held at an award-winning florists has raised over £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

More than 70 guests enjoyed a sunlit evening party at Cottage Flowers, Horton Cross, on Sunday, July 4.

Cottage Flowers won the Muddy Stilettos Best Florist award for Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire last month.

The garden party was organised by Cottage Flowers owner Angie Blackwell, Julie Fowler, and Neil and Annie Roden. 

A total of £2,200 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Tickets for the event cost £20 and the price included canapés, wine, and soft drinks. 

A silent auction for three hampers provided by Silver Street Dairy, Bonners the Butchers, and Cottage Flowers with Lloyds Bank raised £700.

The fundraisers were supported in their efforts by generous donations from people who were unable to attend.

The organisers said: “We are delighted that such a convivial evening was enjoyed by all those who attended and to whom we are very grateful for their generosity.”

Macmillan Cancer Support raises money to provide vital cancer services, fund research, and campaign for better cancer care. 

The charity also supports the cancer workforce and says its purpose is “to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer”.

Macmillan is 98 per cent funded by voluntary donations, making fundraising events like this essential for it to operate.

Gallery: Macmillan Cancer Support fundraiser in Ilminster

Chard & Ilminster News: Pauline Bonner and Carol Thornby. Pictures: Steve RichardsonPauline Bonner and Carol Thornby. Pictures: Steve Richardson

Chard & Ilminster News: Dean and Charlotte Blackwell.Dean and Charlotte Blackwell.

Chard & Ilminster News: Tony Walker, Margaret Excell, and Gill Walker.Tony Walker, Margaret Excell, and Gill Walker.

Chard & Ilminster News: Mark Hebron, Jane Morgan, Elizabeth Beaumont, and Claire Hebron.Mark Hebron, Jane Morgan, Elizabeth Beaumont, and Claire Hebron.

Chard & Ilminster News: Joan Speke, Glenys Whaites, and Shirley Farley.Joan Speke, Glenys Whaites, and Shirley Farley.

Chard & Ilminster News: Mary and Richard Carbin.Mary and Richard Carbin.

Chard & Ilminster News: Nigel and Ann Clymow.Nigel and Ann Clymow.

Chard & Ilminster News: Jackie Morton and Christina Bancroft.Jackie Morton and Christina Bancroft.

Chard & Ilminster News: Mike Bancroft and Chris Morton.Mike Bancroft and Chris Morton.

Chard & Ilminster News: Cottage Flowers owner Angie Blackwell with Barry and Claire Gibbs.Cottage Flowers owner Angie Blackwell with Barry and Claire Gibbs.

Chard & Ilminster News: Ian and Jo Stobart with Mike Doyle.Ian and Jo Stobart with Mike Doyle.

Chard & Ilminster News: Andy Kingston and Maggie Stacey (back) with Charles and Linda Jacobs.Andy Kingston and Maggie Stacey (back) with Charles and Linda Jacobs.

Chard & Ilminster News: Jane Morgan, David Dick, and Angela Sissons.Jane Morgan, David Dick, and Angela Sissons.

Chard & Ilminster News: Lauren and David Ingle from Ellison’s Dining.Lauren and David Ingle from Ellison’s Dining.

Chard & Ilminster News: Event organisers Angie Blackwell and Julie Fowler.Event organisers Angie Blackwell and Julie Fowler.