MEMBERS of Devizes Friends in Training staged a FITFest charity barbecue last Sunday June 30 to raise £630 for Julia's House Children's Hospice in Wiltshire.

The event at the British Lion public house in Escourt Street, Devizes, was hosted by Cllr Damion Godwin, the founder of the running club, hosted the BBQ with the help and support of his members.

Cllr Godwin said: "I was amazed to see so many people come and enjoy the fabulous weather and help raise a staggering £630.

"This event was sparked after we lost a member to suicide and holding mental health close to my heart I wanted to host an event in memory of this member.

"We did a 5k run in the morning and then started the charity BBQ which we have named as FIT fest. Together with the British Lion, we are looking to make it an annual event.

"Paul Buckingham, Tegan Hogg and Jordon Godwin made sure that people didn't go hungry by cooking up 80 burgers and 52 sausages."

Amy Jones and her daughters Molly and Hannah and Amy's mum and dad took charge of the raffle selling 750 tickets, with all prizes donated by Devizes FIT members.

They were entertained by the Swindon-based band WMD in the beer garden of the British Lion, who were 100 per cent behind Devizes FIT for this event.

"It was amazing not only to have support of Devizes FIT but the support of the British Lion staff and regulars and also anyone that popped in."

"Raising such an amount for Julia's house is fantastic, especially after having a tour of the facility in Devizes. I highly recommend anyone to contact Julia's House and have a look at what they provide."