MORE than £3,600 has been raised by the annual Big Somerset Cricket Bash which will make a huge difference to residents at St Margaret’s Hospice.

The charity, which organised the event, said a great day out was had by all 60 participants who together made new memories, remembered loved ones and, most importantly, helped to make a massive difference to individuals and their families under the care of the hospice.

More donations are expected to come in over the coming days, which will help make a real difference to the patients who rely on the charity’s vital service in their homes, in the Sunflower Centres or at the specialist in-patient unit.  

Fuelled by a bacon sarnie, the walkers completed 5km in the morning sunshine, through the stunning countryside right on the doorstep of the Taunton hospice in Bishop’s Hull. The route took in Netherclay and Longrun Meadow before finishing at The Cooper Associates County Ground for day one of the County Championship match against Warwickshire Bears. 

Many came to honour the memory of loved ones, or just take the time to catch up with friends, new and old. 

Merle Harrison-Croft, event manager for St Margaret’s, added “It was such a positive day. Participants were happy to remember their loved ones, enjoy a compelling cricket match with their friends and all whilst supporting the hospice. Thank you to everyone who took part and supported us on the day.

“And a huge thank you to Pynes who provided our bacon sandwiches, Thatcher’s for our much-appreciated cold drink at the cricket ground and of course, Somerset County Cricket Club for donating the tickets to the event.”

Somerset started well against the Warwickshire Bears, with a good four wickets early on but the Bears fought back making a closely contested fun to watch game.