A GROUP of enthusiastic fundraisers in Gloucestershire has raised more than £1,000 for children's charity CHICKS by holding a cider festival at the spectacular Woodchester Mansion.

Around 300 eager cider buffs made their way to Woodchester Mansion where they were invited to sample the 18 ciders and 7 types of perry, and score their results - a system which possibly became slightly less rigorous as the evening progressed.

The team ran a day-long barbecue to complement the cider bar, and organised children's activities throughout the day.

During the afternoon, the Chalford Stick Company, based in the Stroud area, demonstrated their unique Morris dancing style, and persuaded members of the audience join in as well.

Other entertainment included music from the Wiltshore's Magnificent AK47 men's harmony group, Willow acoustic and pub-rock band, Sleepwalkers.

Over £2,000 was made in total at the event; a figure split between CHICKS and Bridge2Aid, a dental charity working in Tanzania.

CHICKS is a children's charity that provides free respite breaks for disadvantaged children from all over UK, including many from various areas of Gloucestershire.

The children CHICKS care for come from a variety of backgrounds; many live in poverty, have been abused, or are neglected.

Others live in care or are themselves young carers, often bearing the extraordinary responsibility of caring for disabled or terminally ill relatives.

In 2013 CHICKS aim is to provide 1,200 disadvantaged children with a free respite break in the countryside and by the sea.

For more information about CHICKS, including volunteering opportunities on weekly camps, please call 01822 811020 or visit www.chicks.org.uk