MEMBERS of the Bathampton Morris Men have raised nearly £310 for the British Eye Hospital from their traditional Christmas charity mumming tour.

They toured 13 of Bradford on Avon's pubs, clubs and restaurants last Thursday December 19 evening.

The group started at 7.30pm in The Barge Inn and finished more than three hours later in the Mount Pleasant Social Club.

Richard Eamer, the group's spokesman, said: "As well as the usual stalwarts James (Father Christmas), John S (Sweet Bet), Thom (Doctor Dodd), Ken (Bold George) and Richard Eamer (Crier) we were joined, at the last minute, by my son William Eamer (Bold Turk) and his friend Ross Gilbert (Johnny Jack) to whom I would like to offer my particular thanks.

"They performed splendidly throughout the evening, as did all, with only the minimum of rehearsal and a modest bribe of free beer. It was a great effort.

"We were received with generosity and good grace in all venues we visited and we were surrounded by warmth and goodwill."

The group collected £309.97, which will be donated to the Bristol Eye Hospital.