THE COMPETITION winner for the best street party in aid of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has donated part of the money raised to charity.

Residents in Devonshire Road had been collaborating for months to try and raise funds for the street party and had set up coffee mornings, jam and marmalade sales and book sales. They were very surprised to hear they had won the £50 Sainsbury’s voucher.

Resident Margaret Faull 73 said: “I was gob-smacked when we won but it meant that we didn’t have to use the money we had raised for food. Everyone contributed even if not in the planning stage.

“We had 3 legged races, and sack races – not just for children. We had different quizzes and face painting and prizes for everything. It was such an enjoyable event. A neighbour’s daughter even created fridge magnets for everyone in the street so to remember the event.”

The planning team included Freya Pitt and Eva Leathem both aged 11 and in year 6 at St Mark’s School. Part of the planning team, their enthusiasm was infectious.

Margaret added: “It really brought the community together and has started a momentum and we are even considering an event for Christmas.”

After all the bills had been paid, they had £208.10 left and had already planned to donate funds to a charity. This was presented to Gemma Heath, the events and community fundraiser for the Salisbury Stars Appeal.

She said: "We were delighted to receive this very kind donation from Freya and Eva from the Devonshire Road Jubilee Street Party. It's always so heart-warming when the local community chooses to support the Stars Appeal.

“It helps us to continue to enhance care for patients across all wards and departments at Salisbury District Hospital and support the NHS staff who care for them. Our thanks to all involved. We hope they had a wonderful Jubilee."