TORRENTIAL rain deterred residents from turing out to a fun day held in aid of the Craig Evans Appeal.

Organisers have expressed their disappointment that the glorious weather of recent weeks did not hold out for Saturday's community fundraiser held at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre.

It was hoped the day, which had taken three months to arrange, would raise £10,000 for the appeal but sadly, only 100 visitors braved the downpour.

Appeal director Jean Leathwaite said: "It was a complete washout.

''We could have all cried. I suppose we had about 100 people bravely turn up and we appreciate them coming."

She praised all the volunteers and stall holders for their hard work.

"We could not believe all the beautiful weather we have had lately but on the day, it just came down with a vengeance."

Despite the deluge, Craig's mum, Christina Dyson, had her head shaved for the cause and the handful of visitors enjoyed stalls, games and activities, including a martial arts demonstration.

And fellow organiser Helen Curtis said: "I would just like to say a huge thank you to Jean and also to Kath Manning, who helped arrange marshalls for the event.''

She also said she still planned to hold a music gig in aid of the fund this winter and a "bigger and better" fun day next year.

Mrs Leathwaite said that now, more than ever, people needed to continue giving to the appeal, which works to help disabled people living in Redditch.

The appeal was launched by the Advertiser to buy Winyates man Craig a new electric powered wheelchair but after his sudden death, it was decided to continue the work in his memory. It is currently working tirelessly to raise money to help three needy people.

"It is going to take a lot of hard work, time and help from our volunteers and community and we are pleading for donations for these people so that we can give them the things they need to give them a better quality of life," she added.

Mrs Leathwaite said she was also looking for a Redditch firm to offer some storage space to the many goodies which were not snapped up at the event.

Anyone who can help or would like to make a donation can call her on 401782.