VILLAGERS have come together to raise nearly £1,000 for charity with a musical street party.

While still following social distancing, residents of De Vere Road in Earls Colne managed to raise a staggering £950 for Colchester Zoo.

The street came together to enjoy live music from resident DJ Paul Woodworth along with a raffle.

The event was the third party the street had thrown, the previous one taking place on VE Day.

Organiser Arline Sloan said: “We had our last fundraising music event for Colchester Zoo and raised £950.

“This was our best fundraiser yet. The running total is almost £1,400 now.

“Colchester Zoo donated family tickets plus a teddy bear for the raffle plus 64 other prizes donated from businesses and individuals.”

The zoo appealed for support as it costs £25,000 a day to care for the animals but the attraction is still closed to the public.

The street has also donated funds raised to NHS charities and the Royal British Legion in the past.

However, the street is now looking to take a break from the lockdown fundraising.

Jokingly, Arline added: We’re taking a break now.

“It took 12 hours to fold and write on the tickets we sold so many.”