CAKES, crafts and coconuts helped Reading Mencap raise more than £2,000 at its open afternoon at the university’s Harris Garden.

Mayor of Reading Councillor Mohammed Ayub cut the ribbon at the fundraising event on Sunday May 14, which was attended by more than 500 adults and children.

Guests could browse stalls, stroll around the beautiful grounds and visit the walled garden, which is usually closed to the public.

Stalls included a tombola, coconut shy, plants and raffle, while crafts to buy included ceramics and colourful pom-pom key rings made by people with a learning disability at clubs run by the charity.

Scores of local businesses also had stalls at the event, including the Caversham Jam Lady, Hack the Stack and Hartland Fudge.

Marie-Claire Dillon, fundraising manager, said the event surpassed all expectations.

She said: “We had a fantastic time and we are delighted with the success of our open garden afternoon. All the money raised goes towards supporting local children and adults with a learning disability and makes a very real difference to the services we can offer.

“A special thank you to the Friends of Harris Garden, Laurels Plant Centre, Ashridge Manor Garden Centre, Café YOLK, Piaroo’s Wish, Homebase and The Range who all made it possible.”

The charity, which supports people with learning disabilities, raised a total of £2,080.