Pink Floyd musician Nick Mason and his wife Annette opened their garden to host a fundraising event and help raise a record amount of £84,000 for local charities.
Over 7,000 people visited the gardens of Middlewick House across the two days (30 and 31 July) and they were treated to a host of stalls, including plants, gifts and clothing
The BBQ and cake stands were busy throughout the weekend and visitors were also attracted to Nick’s stunning collection of 30 high performance and classic cars.
It is the most the event has ever raised, beating the previous best figure of £52,000 for last year’s event. The money will be split between Wiltshire Air Ambulance and The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust.
Both the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust and Wiltshire Air Ambulance are charities that are close to Nick and Annette’s hearts; the pair are Ambassadors for Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Annette is Vice Patron for the Bobby Van Trust.
Nick also took a break from touring to attend and he spent hours talking and signing books for queues of visitors.
Wiltshire Air Ambulance director of fundraising and communications Barbara Gray said: “We can’t thank Nick and Annette enough for hosting this amazing event once more and we are so grateful to the thousands of people who turned up across the weekend. We would also like to thank all of our brilliant volunteers who helped out at the event.
“The money raised has beaten all previous records by some way and it’s a huge boost to our charity as we continue to save lives across Wiltshire, Bath and surrounding areas.”
Jennie Shaw, director of The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust, said: “The Masons are a private couple, yet now most of Wiltshire knows where they live! Frankly, I am amazed at their generosity – each year they allow thousands of people a glimpse into their private space and beautiful gardens and are fully supportive of the local community.
“I must also thank their neighbours and all of those living on Middlewick Lane for coping with thousands of cars descending on their quiet lane one weekend each year. I would also like to show my gratitude to Frank and Jordan Powell, Chippenham Rotary and all the wonderful volunteers who make the weekend possible.
“The event has gone from strength to strength and it also boosts the local economy with the increased footfall who spend their money in local shops.”
