More than £700 has been raised for Weldmar Hospicecare through a raffle.

The raffle - which raised a total of £757 - was organised by Bridport resident Kelly Heath, who will be taking part in Weldmar's trek across the Sahara Desert in November, in memory of her good friend Mel Ferguson, who received outstanding care at Weldmar.

Kelly was blown away by the support of local businesses who donated prizes for the raffle. The prizes included a RIB ride, donated by Simon Miles of Lyme Bay RIB Charter, a six month swim membership donated by Bridport Leisure Centre and the top prize, a paddleboard which was donated by James Stone.

James, who lives in Bridport, heard that Kelly was fundraising for Weldmar and offered his support. He said: "I am just happy to help where I can, nothing complicated, every little helps as they say."

The lucky winner of the paddle board was Carole Emmerson, also of Bridport. Carole was surprised and delighted with her win after buying her tickets from Bridport Leisure Centre.

She said: "I bought the tickets because the raffle was raising money for such a good cause.

"A close friend of mine died recently from MND and had been supported at home by the MND nurse specialist, physio and occupational therapists from Weldmar. They were all brilliant, very kind and supportive. They do such important work helping people at such difficult times in their lives."

She added: "I am looking forward to taking my great nephew, Noah, on it when he's down on holiday and my friend really enjoyed swimming and having fun in the sea, so I'll be thinking of her when I'm using the board."

To support Kelly in her fundraising adventure and to make a donation to Weldmar Hospicecare, visit her Just Giving page.