HARPENDEN’S recent Classics on the Common event has been dubbed a “superb fundraiser” after �20,000 was raised for charities.

There were more than 1,200 classic vehicles, four-wheelers, and 250 motorcycles and scooters on show for the 10,000 admiring spectators visiting the rally organised by Harpenden Village Rotary Club.

The club’s lead organiser Jim Davies said: “Classics on the Common is a superb fundraiser. We were delighted with the support we received from the public. Club members choose three charities that will each receive a quarter share of the funds raised.

“One will be a local charity, another will be devoted to helping children and the third will be a national or international charity. The fourth quarter share goes to various charities supported by Rotary.”

“This year we have been delighted to donate �4,400 each to Keech Children’s Hospice, Mercy Ships and our choice of local charity, Harpenden Mencap.”

Harpenden Mencap fundraiser Libby Sharpe said: “On behalf of Harpenden Mencap I would like to say how absolutely thrilled we are that our friends at the Rotary have raised this fabulous amount of money for us.

“The �4,400 will contribute greatly towards our building fund for our purpose built flats on Carlton Road, where we continue to support those with learning disabilities to live independently in Harpenden.”

Mercy Ships UK runs the world’s largest charity hospital ship, the Africa Mercy. It offers free medical care and humanitarian aid to some of the world’s poorest people.

The ship is staffed by up to 400 volunteers from 40 nations, including cooks, engineers, nurses and surgeons.

Executive director of Mercy Ships Judy Polkinhorn said: “We are extremely grateful to Harpenden Village Rotary Club. Their efforts will help many patients live life to the full again.”