More than 500 people attended a new fete on the outskirts of Sudbury at the weekend – which raised £2,000 for charity.

East Anglian Daily Times: The fete attracted more than 500 people Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEEThe fete attracted more than 500 people Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEE (Image: Archant)

Highlights at the first-ever Ballingdon Fete included a dog show, live music, a belly dancing routine and a chance for children to try out their football skills with AFC Sudbury.

The toy sheep throwing competition – which was themed on the legend of Suffolk and Essex dragons hurling livestock at each other – was won by Andy Pinkus in the adult category and Alice Selwood in the children’s section.

The mayor of Sudbury, Sue Ayres, opened proceedings and Rob Brooks from the fete’s chosen charity – the Eden Rose Coppice – also spoke to crowds about the charity’s work.

Andy Message, fete chairman, said: “It was a brilliant, busy day and we’d like to thank sponsors, stallholders, helpers and visitors who made it all happen.

East Anglian Daily Times: Children got to test their football skills at the fete Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEEChildren got to test their football skills at the fete Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEE (Image: Archant)

“When we set out to do this we had two aims, to raise some money for a good cause and to bring the community together.

“We did both and we are so pleased with the way it went.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Belly dancers from Bellydanza performed at the fete Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEEBelly dancers from Bellydanza performed at the fete Picture: BALLINGDON FETE COMMITTEE (Image: Archant)