A MAD Hatter’s tea party marked 150 years since the creation of Alice in Wonderland whilst raising much-needed funds for the Mayor’s charity appeal.

Around 30 people flocked to Chute House, in Church Street on Saturday afternoon for a special tea party to raise funds for the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Anne Court’s charity appeal.

The three charities of the year are Basingstoke Multicultural Forum, the Ark Cancer Centre Charity and Inspero.

Characters, including the Mad Hatter himself, Alice, the White Rabbit and the Queen of Hearts, brought the story to life for youngsters.

Children then tucked into a personal goodie bag which included sandwiches, drinks and cakes.

Cllr Court told The Gazette: “It has been very good. You couldn’t have asked for a better day and it has rewarded the efforts of the organisers.

“The children had a great deal of fun and were mixing together.”

Monika Zalewska, of Spindle Close, Oakridge, went along to the event with her three-year-old son, Alex.

The 36-year-old said: “It has been a brilliant day and we are really happy. Alex has been running around all afternoon.”