Clipstone residents urged to 'go on safari' for special garden sale fundraiser

Community-spirited Amanda Thompson, of Rufford Avenue, is hoping residents living in her home village – as well the neighbouring Garibaldi and Cavendish estates – will take part in the unique walking garden sale fundraiser on May 2.

She says householders will pay £5 to sell items from their gardens and every home taking part will be marked on a map to be distributed to buyers, who will then walk from garden to garden.

Amanda is hoping to sign up around 60 homes and is also appealing for a 1940s singer to provide entertainment.

All money raised will pay for afternoon tea for elderly people in the area.

The 51 year-old, who runs her own sewing business I’m In Stitches, also works part-time as a clerical officer at Rainworth Primary Care Centre.

She said: “I thought it would be a great idea of getting the village involved in a community event, but safely, outdoors, in the fresh air.

"People can have a clear out, sell their unwanted items but also raise money to bring a bit of pleasure to the elderly people in the are. Many have been isolated during the lockdown.

"We hope people will put up balloons to mark out their garden, the buyers would come to my house first on Rufford Avenue, at the centre of the village, pick up a map and then ‘go on safari’ around the village. We will encourage social distancing.

"Local businesses unable to trade during local lockdown can also join in selling their wares. We also have also people making things like bird boxes to sell to go to the fund. My husband Brett has made wooden planters of flowers and I will put out lots of my sewing items, like 50s-style pinnies and masks.

“The money raised will go towards providing an afternoon tea for senior citizens. Any elderly people that can't get out, we hope to box up an afternoon tea treat and deliver it to them

"We want elderly people on their own to know they are remembered. Any money left will go to the Scouts and Brownies.”

For details contact Amanda on 0789 444 0202.