A HOST of artists have given their work to a special event to raise funds for the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust. The one-off exhibition is being held as part of the Weldmar Extravaganza, which takes place in Sherborne at the end of May.

Among the artists taking part are Gerry Dudgeon, Richard Pikesley, Andrew Stock, Michael Bowman and Jake Winkle.

The exhibition takes place in Sherborne School’s Holt Gallery on Friday, May 29 and there will also be a private viewing, sponsored by the auctioneers Dukes, on the previous evening.

The exhibition is organised by Sherborne’s Jerram Gallery, which exhibits contemporary British pictures and sculptures, showing a diverse range of figurative work spanning in style from traditional to semi-abstract.

The Weldmar Extravaganza promises to be a fabulous day of fun and fundraising, which all the family can enjoy.

The general theme of the event is space, and to help fill Weldmar’s coffers, legendary astronomer Sir Patrick Moore and American astronaut Joe Allen are both giving lectures on the day.

Local schools are also taking part, with a rocket-firing competition overseen by Joe Allen and an essay-writing competition, which will be judged by Sir Patrick.

Dorset-based gardening expert and writer Anna Pavord will be giving a talk, as will authors Michael Dobbs and Tim Heald, and there is to be a silent auction, tombola and a wide range of stalls selling everything from crafts to hats.

Children will revel in the wealth of entertainment being laid on, including puppets, street theatre and jugglers and music from the Band of the Light Cavalry, the Gemini Jazz Group and more.

For further details and to book tickets to the talks, call 01305 215315.