PEDAL power fans and footballers have been thanked for raising a huge £5,000 between them to support Goostrey Scouts.

The total was raised last weekend for Goostrey’s new Scout Hut and Youth Centre, one year after it was officially opened, cutting the outstanding loan to be repaid on the building to £40,000.

The annual Big Bike Ride has so far raised £4,000, with 70 people from the Goostrey area getting on their bikes to cycle around the leafy lanes of Cheshire.

Some had signed up to cycle 32 miles and others 55 miles, and everyone finished the course and enjoyed cakes and a barbecue fayre back at the Scout Hut, provided by Scouting volunteers.

Group Scout Leader David Giles said: “Many thanks to Tony Taylor, who organises this major fundraising event every year, and to all friends and neighbours who have sponsored the cyclists.

“If you wish, there is still time to show your support, by logging on to the fundraising website – mydonate.bt.com/events/bigbikeride18."

The following day local footballers turned out to raise funds at the annual Simon Weston Trophy match between players from East and West Goostrey.

More than £900 was raised for the Scout Hut fund from the sale of tea and cakes and in competitions on the day.

On a sunny Sunday there was a great turnout and a warm family spirit at the Booth Bed Lane grass football pitch.

David added: “My thanks go to David Hext for organising this great event and giving the proceeds to the Scout Hut – and to all who helped with the match and the refreshments on the day.”

For one afternoon only, on the official birthday of The Queen, Margaret Kettle - Goostrey’s best-known Rose Queen - has agreed to recount memories of her long life and times in Goostrey in a Michael Parkinson-style interview with David Giles.

Afternoon Tea with Mrs Kettle takes place on Saturday, June 9, at the Scout Hut from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.

Tea and cakes will be served from 3.30pm. Tickets are £5, in advance only, available from Goostrey Village Stores, Goostrey News and the Trading Post.