Community spirit was alive and well on Saturday as locals flocked to The Pilot for the sixth annual fundraiser and family fun day, raising £1,890 for Wiltshire Mind. And with money still to come in from auctions, it is hoped the final amount raised will reach £3,000.
Organised by Tracie Winslow, the fun-filled day featured live music, an array of stalls, games, crafts and children’s entertainment, including visits from television favourite Bluey, Darth Vader and a princess.
“It was all about bringing family and friends together and raising money for a wonderful cause,” said Tracie, who was the Melksham News Person of the Year last year. “We had some amazing entertainment and lots for the whole family to enjoy, from a dance fit class to a performance by HD Dance Studios, glitter tattoos, a magic show, balloon animals, bubbles, and puppetry courtesy of Rachael from Froggle Parties, and even Dig a Duck, where people could sit in a mini digger and hook ducks out of a paddling pool which was brilliant fun!”
In addition to the games and performances, the day included a raffle and what Tracie described as “the biggest tombola we’ve ever had” in memory of her close friend Karen Kerry, who passed away earlier this year.
“Karen was by my side for every fundraiser I’ve done, so we had to make it the best yet to remember her,” Tracie explained.
Over the years, Tracie’s fundraising efforts have brought in more than £25,000 for Wiltshire Mind, a local charity that provides mental health support.
“Unfortunately, this will be the last fun day as I’m having to give up because of my own health but I’m not done yet!” she said. “We’re so close to £30,000, and I’m going to make sure we get there. Wiltshire Mind is a fantastic charity.”
One in four people will experience a mental health problem in any given year, and one in six people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week. Wiltshire Mind provide a safe and friendly place where anyone can find the support and respect they need and deserve. It provides counselling for adults and also young people, and support groups across Wiltshire, for those experiencing emotional distress, or common mental health problems.
“Very big thanks to all my team who helped, to all the people who came and supported us and massive thanks again go to James, Max and their wonderful staff for letting me take over the Pilot!” Tracie added.
