CHEF Matt Smith is planning to bring the summer fete back to a Dorset village.

He is organising the event at Milborne St Andrew on Sunday, August 8, at the village hall and field in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.

Matt, 19, who lives in Dorchester and is a higher level chef at the hospice, said: “It should be a great day.

“I know a few people who live in the village and they haven’t had a summer fete for a few years.

“They have their Milborne May Fair but not a summer fete.

“I thought it would be good to have a fete and raise money for the hospice.”

The new attraction comes as the village community blossoms with the Royal Oak pub re-opening last September and the village hall having undergone a £50,000 revamp.

Matt added: “The villagers all seem keen to support the fete and I have great support from the village hall committee.

“But I also hope lots of people from the surrounding villages and such towns as Dorchester and Blandford will go along too.

“It’s for people of all ages from all around.

“I am hoping for a big crowd.”

The fete, which is free to enter, will be from 11am to 3pm and will have stalls and a main arena.

There will be belly dancers, line dancers, a folk band, Dorset Police vehicles, a coconut shy, wet sponge throwing stall, a raffle, barbecue and refreshments.

There will also be facepainting, hoopla, bric-a-brac, a Play Your Cards Right stand, a human fruit machine stall, homemade produce, ice creams and handmade jewellery.

There will also be a fancy dress competition for children under 12 with prizes.

Car parking is being provided free of charge.

Matt hopes to be able to donate about £800 to the hospice.

There are still a couple of slots in the main arena for any performers who want to join in.

Matt also wants to hear from any businesses that want to support the event or donate raffle prizes.

He is also looking volunteers to help out on the day.

Call Matt on 07946 413162 and the fundraising office on 01305 215315.