HUNDREDS of people strolled around a wildlife oasis in the sunshine to raise more than £600 for charity.

Bobbit’s Hole Nature Reserve in Main Road, Dovercourt, opened its gates to the public on Sunday for its annual charity stroll.

The day saw families enjoy walking around the large lake, watching the ducks and other wildlife, passing by the bee hives and enjoying the tranquility of the site.

There was also cakes, light refreshments, teas and coffees on sale, face painting and the children’s quiz trail.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Colin Farnell, chairman of the Harwich Society, which owns and runs Bobbit’s Hole, said: “We had over 300 people turn up and raised over £600 for Canine Partners. They were over the moon.

“The weather was nice and the kids had a quiz to do. It was a fabulous day.

“The Scouts did a tidy beforehand - it’s always tidy but there are always brambles to cut back as they grow so quickly.

“It’s very much a community thing.”

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Mr Farnell added: “We had new people come along and we were selling empty butter tubs for 50p for people to pick blackberries and cheery plums.”

The stroll was the ninth of its kind at the reserve, which is tucked away behind the Asda supermarket.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

All to money raised will be donated to Canine Partners, a charity which provides assistance dogs to people with disabilities.

They are trained to help with every day tasks such as unloading the washing machines, picking up dropped items and even taking bank cards out of a cash machine.