ACTORS Martin Clunes and Julian Fellowes are to appear at the Weldmar summer fete in Dorchester.

The star duo, who both live in Dorset, will be at the charity’s annual extravaganza at the Joseph Weld Hospice on Saturday.

The fete – which is one of the charity’s main fundraising events of the year – is from 11am to 4pm and will feature a host of entertainment and attractions.

Director of fundraising Caroline Nickinson said: “We are looking forward to welcoming Martin Clunes, who will be arriving during the morning, and Julian Fellowes.

“Julian will be drawing the winning tickets for our grand summer draw at 3.30pm.

“We are so delighted to have the support of both of them at this year’s fete.”

Mr Clunes, who lives near Beaminster, and Mr Fellowes, who lives at West Stafford, near Dorchester, have both been strong supporters of the charity.

Mr Fellowes, who is a vice president of Weldmar, said: “I am very keen on Weldmar.

“I will be at the fete and drawing the winning ticket.

“Weldmar is so important and is so well run, and deserves so much support.”

Dorchester mayor Les Phillips will open the 15th annual fete at 11am. It will be in the grounds of the hospice in Herringston Road.

It will include stands, stalls, entertainment and a well-established silent auction with prizes including a walk-on part in Doc Martin with Mr Clunes.

Mrs Nickinson said: “As in the past there will be fun and games for all, including stalls, all manned by volunteers, which will sell home produce, cakes, bric-a-brac, plants, handicrafts, costume jewellery and much more. “There will be games, prize draws, a grand summer raffle and a large tombola, together with entertainment throughout the day. Refreshments will include a barbecue and ice creams.”

She added: “The now famous silent auction which runs until 3pm prompt contains many unusual items to bid upon.

“They include a flight over Dorset, a day’s sailing on a yacht and a walk-on part in Doc Martin with Martin Clunes.”

Musical entertainment will be provided by Chris Groves and Brian Inkpen. Dorchester YMCA Gymnastics Club, the Honeysuckle Hydrotherapy Agility Dog Display Team, Dist- inction Street Dance, cheerleaders and belly dance troupes and the L & B Line Dancing Team will be among those giving displays.

Mrs Nickinson added: “We are delighted for the first time this year to welcome The Lyme Alpacas to the fete. In addition there will be games and static displays including Vehicles of Yesteryear and Golden Wings Honda Motorbikes, Spirit of Air VW Club.”

The fete attracted nearly 2,000 visitors last year and raised about £25,000,