DOZENS of people enjoyed a bowl of soup and a bread roll while listening to good causes which needed their help.

Community group Colchester Soup got its third event underway at Holy Trinity Church, in Colchester town centre, with cash up for grabs for speakers willing to explain what they needed it for.

Vying for votes from the audience were Colchester Wildcats, Colchester 3D Craft, and grief recovery coach Susan Dickerson.

Karen Taylor, organiser of Colchester Soup, said: “Having donated around £5 for their soup, roll and vote the 60-member audience settled down to hear presentations from the three contenders for the pot of door money.

“Presentations were given by Colchester 3D Craft, who needed to raise money for their London show at the end of their university course, and second up were Colchester Wildcats who needed £136 and were offering to split the balance, should they win, between the other two pitchers.

“They wanted to let people know about the sport and get them interested in their trial days in May rather than win any cash.

“The final pitch of the evening came from Susan Dickerson who is intending to start up as a grief recovery coach in town.”

The audience mulled over their choices as to who should win before retreating to the ballot box to cast their vote.

The winner was announced shortly after.

Mrs Taylor said: “The winner by a very close margin was Susan who ultimately took home more than £300 thanks to the generosity of both the audience and the raffle winner.

“As well as the cash she has very good leads for venues when the business starts.”

Colchester Soup gives people the chance to get cash by selling their idea to an audience who have donated £5 at the door.

Participants have to give a talk on what they would use the money for.

Mrs Taylor added the group was pleased with the event but said the main hurdle was to make sure there were enough people willing to talk for five minutes to take home the £200 to £300.

To take part go to colchetersoup.

co.uk or contact Mrs Taylor on 07532 253540.

The next event is July 10 at 6.30pm, Emmaus warehouse, in Arthur Street, Colchester.