HUNDREDS have been raised to help go towards keeping Halstead looking clean and tidy thanks to a charity event.

A cricket match was held at the Halstead Cricket Club on Friday to raise money for the town's In Bloom group, with nearly £600 being raised through the day's success.

The game between The Old Cheltonians and The High Street Rangers took place to raise money for Halstead in Bloom - a group dedicated to making Halstead a clean, tidy place to live in.

The present Halstead in Bloom was formed in 1999.

The game began in the early evening and concluded at 8.30pm when the Rangers were declared the winners at 135 runs after 17 overs, with the Cheltonians at 134 for 20 overs.

Beer - The event also Beer - The game was part of a mini beer festival (Image: Submitted)

The event was attended by 200 people and was part of the mini beer festival at the Star Stile Cricket Ground.

The festival was held over three days from Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30 with Real Ales on offer alongside Cider, Lager, and Spirits.

On Friday was the charity match, with a barbecue, the range of tipples and an evening of live music with James Burrage.

On Saturday, Halstead's first XI and third XI played, again with a barbecue and live music, this time from The AM's. 

Lastly, on Sunday, Halstead Sunday XI took on Chelmsford Sunday XI.

Donations - Halstead in Bloom members collecting donationsDonations - Halstead in Bloom members collecting donations (Image: Submitted)

Members of Halstead in Bloom were in attendance during Friday's match wearing their "recognisable high-viz vests” and the members cheered on both teams.

All the cricket players donated their entry fees and loose change was also collected from the attending crowd meaning a total of just over £570 was raised.

A spokesman from Halstead in Bloom said: “Thank you to all those who contributed to this amazing total and the super evening that was enjoyed by all."