An award-winning chef cooked up a storm at an auction evening, helping to raise more than £4,500 for charity.

Friends of Dorset County Hospital (DCH) organised an ‘Auction of Promises’ and, with the help of MasterChef winner Mat Follas, the evening raised a staggering £4,518.

The event was held at the Bramble Café and Deli in Poundbury and was part of an ongoing mission to raise £17,000 for a new ultrasound machine for the Respiratory Department at the hospital.

It was led by Mat with the help of chef Katy Barnard, as well as Gary Batt from Dukes Auctioneers in Dorchester.

Manager of the Friends, Sharon Merritt, said: “We were delighted when Mat said he wanted to help and it was him that suggested an Auction of Promises.

“We loved the idea as it was something completely different to anything we had done before.

“One of our volunteers, Jane Young, was happy to take up the challenge of finding some unique promises and sponsors to help make the evening a success.”

The Friends secured a range of promises including a dinner for ten people at Bindon Mill from Sally Weld, a dinner for eight from Lord and Lady Fellowes, a two-night stay at the four star Harland Quay Hotel in north Devon, a chauffeur-driven ride through the Dorset countryside in a 1964 Alvis Classic, followed by a champagne afternoon tea at Yalbury Cottage in Lower Bockhampton.

Sainbury’s in Weymouth, Weyfish and P R Howell Butchers all generously donated food for the evening.

Sharon added: “Our special thanks also go to Mat and Katy for not only cooking us a delicious meal, but for providing one of the promises.

“A big thank you to Sophie Gibbs from the Bramble Café and Deli as well, who helped with the cooking, cleaning and service on the night – all free of charge.

“Thanks also to everyone who attended, it was a fabulous evening and everyone was incredibly generous.”

For more information about the Friends of Dorset County Hospital, please call 01305 255896 or email friends@dchft.nhs.uk