A magical world of Mad Hatter's tea parties, treasure hunts and story time with Alice which was created in a bishop's garden has helped to raise hundreds of pounds for a drug and alcohol charity.

Norwich Evening News: Alice in BishopslandAlice in Bishopsland (Image: Archant)

The event was part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the charity's founding.

The Bishop of Norwich opened his garden for the Alice in Wonderland-themed event, in aid of The Matthew Project.

It was held on Sunday afternoon, and given the appropriate name of Alice in Bishopsland.

Organisers recorded 239 visitors, old and young. They all arrived through an arch and they were greeted by an Alice-related film.

The organisers laid on numerous games for their guests to enjoy, including splat the rat and a parachute game, as well as enjoying music from the Top Brass quintet, and a magician.

An information tent gave attendees information about the charity, which covers Norfolk and helps anyone of any age who is affected by drugs or alcohol, whether as a user, or someone who is affected by someone who is a user.

Activities at the party included a Mad Hatter's tea party, which included squash and cakes, a treasure hunt, a fancy dress competition and story time with Alice.

At the end of the day, everyone was waved off by the characters from Lewis Carroll's story.

Paul Martin, chief executive of The Matthew Project, said: 'On a lovely summer's day over 200 children (and those a little older) had a wonderful day at our Alice in Bishopsland event in the magical surroundings of the bishop's gardens. The band and children played, Alice read and characters came to life, there were maze treasure hunts and the Mad Hatter's tea with cake, coffee and tea for all.

'So we thank the bishop and Simon the gardener, the many people who worked so hard behind the scenes and on the day, with local companies being so generous and every guest who made the day so wonderful.'

Sharon Hulbert, media and fundraising manager of The Matthew Project, said: 'The children loved it. I have had so much feedback.'

She said that the three-hour event had raised about £1,500 for the charity.

For more information about the charity, visit matthewproject.org

Are you planning to hold an event to raise money for charity? Email martin.george@archant.co.uk