More than £1,000 was raised for charity when guests were served a traditional afternoon tea at a garden party.

Fifty people supported the event which was held at the Epping home of Town Mayor councillor Les Burrows and his wife, Carol.

Charities were chosen for donations by the mayor and former mayor Cllr Barbara Scruton, who is this year’s Rotary Club of Epping president.

Selected charities included the Heart of Epping Appeal, and Bibic, which provides therapies for children with developmental difficulties, autism and dyslexia.

Sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones and jam with clotted cream were enjoyed by the guests who also supported a raffle.

Mr Burrows said: "I would like to thank everyone who supported the garden party and helped us raise such a marvellous amount of money for our two chosen charities."

Mrs Scruton said: "The mayor and I are have joined forces and are supporting two great causes.

"We intend to hold further fundraising events throughout our year of office to support Bibic with its work and to help raise money for the new Heart of Epping community facilities."