A BARBECUE in the sunshine outside Gravesend Civic Centre raised more than £500 for the mayor’s charities.

Mayor of Gravesham, Councillor Lyn Milner, hosted the feast and craft fair in Community Square on Friday, August 31, in aid of EllenorLions Hospices and Alzheimers and Dementia Support Services.

Meat was donated by Danslow Butcher, while TJ’s pub and Bassant Indian Restaurant also made donations.

A cupcake competition among council staff was judged by Brookside star Louis Emerick and The Bill’s PC Tony Stamp, Graham Cole, who both star in the play Soap Opera which debuts at The Woodville on Wednesday (September 12).

Cllr Milner said: “We were so lucky to have such a lovely day for the event. Everyone looked as if they thoroughly enjoyed the day, and I am so pleased to have raised more than £500 towards such deserving charities at this event.”