For many years the Rotary Club of Bridport has ordered hyacinth bulbs in July, planted them in September and sold them on Bucky Doo Square and in Beaminster during November and December in readiness for Christmas.

This year, because of the uncertainties surrounding Covid-19, it was decided to reduce the number of pots from the usual 800 to a more manageable 500 in case of any lockdown restrictions at the time of selling.

Sure enough, a lockdown happened - but due to the hard work of club members selling to friends and relations and the help of two local shops all 500 were sold by the end of November.

Lisa Finlayson and Wayne Fraser at Bradpole Post Office and Pete and Gill Mayo at Burton Bradstock Post Office between them sold more than 200 pots of bulbs.

This voluntary act of good will during these difficult times is very much appreciated by the club.

All profits from the bulb sales will help to support local, national and international charities and other needy causes. For example, during the current pandemic the West Dorset Scrubbers were given £990 for the purchase of materials for making personal protection equipment for the NHS; the Bridport and Beaminster lockdown hubs received £2,250 towards setting up and running the hubs and Cupboard Love food bank was given £500.

On behalf of the Bridport Rotary and its members President Roger Pollock said: "I am delighted that all the bulbs have sold. The money raised will give a big boost to the club's charity fund at a time when the more traditional ways of fundraising are difficult if not impossible.

"Hopefully, all being well, we will be back again next year selling at the usual spots on Bucky Doo Square and in Beaminster as well as the two post offices."