AN “exceptional gathering” for a charity’s second Jazz Picnic has raised £2500.

Uttlesford Citizens Advice Bureau hosted the fund-raiser at Ashdon Hall last weekend.

The organisers wanted to make a special mention about the level of support provided by the young people of the district – from the scouts who supplied and erected the marquee to performances to the range of talented young people who performed: Saffron Walden-based jazz singer/songwriter and pianist Joanna Eden, Saffron Walden County High School Jazz Band and the charismatic 17-year-old Hollie Haines, Girl with the Guitar.

Uttlesford’s young entrepreneur, Dominic Parry from The Saffron Ice Cream Company, also donated his delicious ice cream.

Celebrity guest, Stephen McGann, Dr Turner from Call the Midwife, presented the winners of the CAB Youth Design competition with their certificates and also entertained the crowd with his unique style of raffle alongside SWCHS music teacher Mrs Smith.

An incredible amount of support was also given by CAB volunteers working with the Saffron Walden Diamonds.

Uttlesford CAB manager Kate Robson said: “There are so many people to thank for an event like this, we have been overwhelmed by the interest and support everyone has shown and are incredibly grateful to all those who has volunteered to support and attend the picnic.

“We have been working hard to try and raise our profile for the younger members of the community and to let them know we are here to help them too. So it is was particularly heartening to see them come out and support the work that we do in such numbers.

“We are a local charity staffed largely by volunteers so the funds raised will be vital to ensure we can continue to offer help to those in need.”

A comprehensive list of donors and message of thanks is available on the website, at uttlesfordcab.org.uk