A PROP raffled off at the end of a pantomime has helped boost an appeal to build a new children's hospice for the South West.

Court Players' production of Puss In Boots at Rangeworthy Memorial Hall featured the dame, Queen Fanny the Fifth, arriving on stage via electric scooter.

The scooter, donated by Bristol-based firm Stearn Electric, was raffled and this, together with a retiring collection, raised £675 for Babe's Big Appeal.

This brings the amount raised by the Players for the appeal to build a new children's hospice in the south west to £1,000 in just nine months.

Caroline Clarke, of the Children's Hospice South West, said: "We'd like to say a huge thank you to the Court Players and all involved in raising this marvellous sum of money.

"We wouldn't be able to do any of this without the support of people like these."

Allan Clarke, chairman of the players, said: "We hope our audiences enjoyed the show and thank them most sincerely for their generosity to this very worthwhile local charity."

The Court Players' next production is the famous improbable farce by Noel Coward, Blithe Spirit.

The show is being presented at the Memorial Hall, Rangeworthy, on May 19, 20 and 21 at 7.30pm.

Tickets will be available from box office on 01453 811066.