NEIGHBOURS in Melksham recently held their annual street party in memory of their friend and raised more money to add to the more than £5,500 raised for charity since 2008.
Friends and family on Willow Close threw the party on 13th August to raise money for Bath RUH’s Forever Friends Appeal, in memory of popular local woman Nicola Robertson, who died in 2013 aged 28.
Party organiser Katie Chappell said, “In 2008 we tried to hold a simple garden party but things got a little out of control as the event got bigger and bigger, and we started taking over the front gardens of the entire cul-de-sac!
“Since then we have raised over £5,700 to support different charities. This year our charity was chosen in memory of Nicola Robertson, who lived in the close from a young age, but sadly lost her battle to cancer, aged just 28.
“Nicola was in our thoughts throughout, as she helped with previous events and anyone who knew her would agree she was the life and soul of the party.
“We raised money by holding a tombola, lucky dip, bouncy castle, golf, book stall, Pimms O’clock, and a raffle.
“We would like to say thank you to Tops of Melksham, Boomerang, The Bounce House, Waitrose, Christie Miller, Hobby Base of Westbury, and Bounce-A-Roo for their kind donations.
“The seating was simple but really effective; thank you Mr and Mrs Fehily for providing the hay bales. Thank you to DJ Mister M for making a great atmosphere with the music. Also to the Rachel Fowler Centre for providing the stocks. It was fun locking people up, and made a great photo opportunity!
“We would also like to send a huge thank you to the mayor for spending time with us. It was lovely to have Terri Welch at the event. The Melksham Town Hall very kindly supplied the bunting which really set the scene. The fire brigade and the first responder spent a few hours with us too, which was definitely a head turner!
“Lastly, I personally would like to thank all the people who came to the event and each member of the close for making this event happen.
“We have already started talking about the next event!”
