An historic house opened its doors and grounds to people of all ages today as the Peace Hospice hosted a successful fund-raising party.

The Queen Anne House in Hunton Park hosted music, games, talks, stalls and competitions for the annual garden party, hoping to raise around £8,000 for the charity.

Music was provided by jazz band Ain't Misbehaving, the Watford Accordion School and the Borehamwood Brass Band while others danced away in line dancing and salsa sessions.

Story-telling, face painting and the debut appearance of a rodeo made sure the spirits of the attendees did not go the way of the deflated bouncey castles due to the weather.

A mini golf putting range, coconut shy and other traditional fair events were paired with wine, tea and cakes for the adults to create a range of activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Peace Hospice's corporate development manager, Maggie Grand, said: “We try to get something for everyone with face painting and make up for the children but also a place for the adults to just have a cup of tea and a relax in the garden.”

She praised volunteers from the University of the Third Age and other local groups who spent months making sure the fifth occurrence of the event was the best yet.