HUNDREDS of people attended the first Beaminster Connect event in west Dorset, which aimed to showcase the wide range of activities and organisations in the town. 

Up to 30 groups popped up at the Prout Bridge Project in Prout Hill for the inaugural meet-up.

The day was hailed a great success, with an attendance of more than 200 people browsing the town’s variety of clubs, activities and interests.

Refreshments on the day raised more than £300 for the Prout Bridge Project, a charity helping young people in and around the town.

Julia’s Charity Card’s raised in excess of £100 for Cancer Research, and £35 was raised from the sale of books in aid of the Yarn Barton Community Information Centre.

The day’s free Golden Ticket draw, with a prize of lunch for two at The Ollerod Hotel and Restaurant in Beaminster, was won by town resident Sarah Kellard.

The aim of the event was to showcase Beaminster’s variety of clubs, societies and social activities under one roof.

It was also an invitation for people to get to know each other, share interests and make new friends.

Organisations said there was a 'buoyant atmosphere' and that the event was a great opportunity to raise their profile in the town, with new members and volunteers signed up on the day.

It is hoped Beaminster Connect can be repeated next year.