Going is good for Arun’s chairman Ann

The pounding of hooves and the boom of loudspeakers rang out as scores of people from across the area flocked to the event, at which more than £5,500 was raised for Ann’s two chosen charities, Combat Stress and the National Osteoporosis Society.

The fund-raiser was held in a specially erected marquee at Fontwell Park and Racecourse and featured a guest appearance by EastEnders’ actor, Derek Martin, who plays Charlie Slater in the soap opera, and a “Raise the Stakes” charity auction.

Speaking after the afternoon racing extravaganza, a jubilant Ann said: “I am thoroughly delighted that everything went so well and that we have raised such a fantastic sum for my chosen charities.

“A lot of hard work went into organising this event to make sure that everyone had a lovely afternoon, as well as raising as much as possible for the charities, and it really paid off.

“Volunteers from both the charities as well as Tyndall Jones of Littlehampton, veteran of the collection bucket, did a great job in shaking the buckets and also selling the raffle tickets.”

Not only did those attending enjoy a slice of the racing festivities, they also got to take part in charity auction, raffle, and a tipster competition.

Arun’s chief executive Nigel Lynn congratulated Ann on the race day’s success.

He said: “It was a wonderful afternoon and everyone seemed to enjoy it. I think that £5,500 is a fantastic sum to have raised from this event and a brilliant result for the charities.”

Ann wished to thank all those who spared the time to help organise, collect or entertain during the event.

She also praised her husband Bill for all his unwavering support.

“I have so many wonderful people to thank for their help and support including all those who donated money, raffle prizes, auction items, everyone who bought tickets for the event and helped to promote it,” she said.

Ann stressed that this wasn’t the end of her fund-raising quest, adding that there were still more event in the pipeline, for later on in the year, that she hoped would be just as successful.