Budleigh Salterton’s Gala Week has raised thousands of pounds for local good causes after scores of visitors enjoying the fun-filled events, dug deep and gave generously.

A whopping �15,000 was raised at Budleigh Salterton’s 2011 Gala Week, the Lions Club has revealed.

The week-long celebrations attracted hundreds keen to take part in the plethora of events, activities and family fun.

The planning of next year’s event is already under way and meetings have already taken place to discuss the 2012 programme of events.

Lion Geoff Paver hailed the 2011 event a success.

He said more than 200 people had taken part in the Spot the Stranger shop window competition, which had been brought back by popular demand.

Mr Paver said the events had been well-supported – including the pebble building competition which increases in entry size year on year.

The gala week organiser said: “The designs were fantastic and the competition grows and gets better every year.

“Budleigh Salterton Lions members would like to say a big thank you to their wives, husband, sponsors, shops that sold programmes, and all who donate money to help us put on the week.

“We would also like to thank the charities which took part and everyone who attended the events - without their support we would not be able to co-ordinate gala week.

“This year, give or take a pound or two, around �15,000 was raised by all the charities and organisations that took part.”

Budleigh’s businesses were given a boost by the hundreds of visitors flocking to the town for the week of fun.

Budleigh Chamber of Commerce chairman Alan Tilbury said the town’s businesses had seen a boost in trade during the busy week of celebrations.

Mr Tilbury said: “Everyone has certainly had a boost. A lot of people come down with their families especially for gala week.”

Budleigh Salterton’s mayor, Dick Mitchell, said: “The Lions have done an excellent job. Gala week brings the community together.”