THE 2014 Basingstoke Festival of Art and Crafts will take place on October 11 – 12 in The Hampshire Court Hotel, Chineham.

This event, which is in aid of local charities, is a celebration of the work of local artists with original paintings and craft work for sale.

Entry is free and there will be a raffle of artwork by local artists.

On display will be a selection of high class photography and a varied selection of quality craft work including handmade pottery, fused glass, and silk painting.

Refreshments will be available.

All proceeds will be donated equally to The Ark Cancer Centre Charity, Basingstoke Young Carers and Basingstoke Dial-a-Ride.

The Ark Cancer Centre Charity was set up in October 2013 to raise funds for a new Cancer Centre (as part of the Hampshire Hospitals Group) to be built between Basingstoke and Winchester. The plan is for the centre to provide radiotherapy, chemotherapy and supportive care to thousands of cancer patients who currently have to travel to Southampton or Guildford.

Basingstoke Young Carers enables carers to access the services they need as well as providing projects, young carers’ youth clubs, steering groups, residentials, trips and events. The aim is to give Young Carers the best possible life chances.

Basingstoke Dial-a-Ride operates a minibus/taxi service seven days a week for residents who would otherwise be housebound.

Assistance is given to those needing to visit hospital, doctors, the town centre and even recreational locations within the borough.

The festival will be open on the Saturday from 11am to 6pm and the Sunday from 11am to 5pm.

Find out more by emailing vbanddb@hotmail.com.