DONKEY-RIDERS galloped their way through the sunshine at a charity fundraiser over the bank holiday.

The Donkey Derby was the star attraction at the Godstone Village Fête on Bank Holiday Monday, which raised thousands for local charities.

Sticky start: The donkey racers come a cropper at the annual fundraiser.
Traditional Fare: Cake stalls at the Godstone Village Fête REGM201008310AX_020
Starters' Orders: Donkey Derby racers get ready for the off.
Fundraising joy: Lynne Watson from the Alzheimer's society.
Reaching for the top:Youngsters show off their climbing skills REGM20100830AX_017
And they're off: The donkey racers in full flow and winners Emily Gardiner, Amy Tickner and Robyn Kite, inset REGM20100830AX_004 and REGM20100830AX_001
Spin the wheel: Revellers take their chance at the Godstone event REGM20100830AX_022
L 2 R First race 1st Emily Gardiner 2nd Amy Tickner 3rd Robyn Kite
Winners: (1st) Emily Gardiner (2nd) Amy Tickner (3rd) Robyn Kite.

Such was the demand at this year's event, there were tailbacks heading back on to Junction 6 on the M25 as cars queued in the sunshine to get in.

The village hall was turned into an arena for people to place their bets on the donkey races.

Simon Abbott, who was holding a stall for the Caterham, Oxted and Godstone (COG) Lions, said: "I tell you what, when the sun comes out it makes such a difference. I don't think I have ever seen as many people at this show before."

Colleague and president of the COGS, Tony Quincey, said they raised over £300 in food and drink alone.

"It has been perfect as we sold out all our hot food in the morning and the cold drinks disappeared after the sun came out," he said.

"What I like about it here is that it is not commercial. All the charities and stands are run by people from the area, so you know the money raised is coming back into Godstone."

As well as the races there were bouncy castles and food stalls for the children, as well as a demonstration from the Godstone Bowling Club.

The Alzheimer's Charity were using the event to promote their Godstone Memory Walk.

Lynne Watson of the charity said: "We have had a great day. The main purpose was to get people involved with our charity walk but we have also managed to sell quite a few things on our stall.

Organisations wishing to become beneficiaries of the fête, have to apply in writing to the committee. They are expected to take an active role in helping run the event. Since 1985, over £100,000 has been given to beneficiaries.

The present committee, are always looking for volunteers to join them.

If you require further details about this year's event, please contact godstonefete@btinternet.com

Gathering support for our Scrap the Plan campaign, Surrey Mirror reporter Owen Evans joined supporters rallying against Surrey County Council's controversial Minerals Plan. Turn to page six.