Dorchester's Brewery Square businesses have raised more than £4,500 for charities.

The retailers took part in a number of events throughout 2021, raising a total of £4,541.26 for various local charities.

Through live music performances, raffles and more Brewery Square events, collections took place over the course of the year.

Charlotte Spracklen, centre manager at Brewery Square, said: "We are incredibly lucky to have so many wonderful retailers who regularly get involved to raise money for such worthy causes.

"Brewery Square is always striving to bring the community together through our events and we're all so proud to have such generous visitors get involved."

Dorchester Art Gallery took part in fundraising activity for both Weldmar Hospice and Children in Need. Georgia Heggs, sales director at the gallery, raised money for Weldmar in aid of her father-in-law, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer, as staff have been providing palliative care for him. She ran 62 miles throughout January 2021.

A raffle was hosted for Children in Need, with a Pudsey sculpture by British artist Doug Hyde to be won.

The Highbrow Clinic raised money for the Kingfisher Ward at Dorset County Hospital to contribute towards specialist training for staff to provide support to young people battling eating disorders. The clinic held a raffle, offering treatment packages to winners.

Throughout 2021, Brewery Square has been collecting money for local organisation Diverse Abilities by providing collection buckets at each of their events. This helps support children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Vinyl Van hosted a Fresh Food Soundsystem event, raising money for Dorchester Fresh Food Bank. The event included an evening of live music hosted by Simon, the founder of the food bank.

Vinyl Van also regularly provides prizes for local schools and charities, including Dorset Carers and Thomas Hardye. In addition, the shop offers young people and local musicians support through a dedicated work experience scheme and a platform to perform and showcase their skills.

Charlotte added: "The community spirit of Brewery Square is something we are all immensely proud of and the money raised in 2021 is a testament to that.

"We hope to bring even more successful events to the district this year and help even more of our community in need of support."

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