Great Easton Festival raises thousands for Cancer Research UK

A festival of music and food in a garden in Great Easton last Saturday (July 4) attracted 850 people and raised £9,400 for Cancer Research.

The first Cookies Fest was a great success and the money is still coming in.

The event was run by Katie Bretman, in memory of her dad, Brian Cook who died of cancer four years ago.

Since she lost her dad, the mum of four has been raising money with an annual cake sale, making about £500 a year for the charity.

She said: “This year, I wanted to up my game.”

Three bands played at the festival, Wonkey Donkey, Room C from Saffron Walden and The Rolling Clones.

There were also Suzanne Fox’s dancers from The Granary Dance School in Dunmow, side shows and games.

Mrs Bretman said: “My friends and neighbours helped out with setting up and taking down. Great Easton Primary School lent me toys and equipment for the children and the headteacher Mrs Jackson came along.

“We made £450 just on the cake stall with donated cakes from the village. We had a strongman show where people had to hit a target with a hammer and ring a bell, there was a bouncy castle and face painting. We had ice-cream, a hog roast and the Community Café’s salad bar sold out and donated all their profits. I’m so thankful to everyone who came along and helped and took part.”