A Great Dunmow mother has pledged to raise £5,000 this year in a solo charity bid.

Lorraine Clarke, 35, of Stortford Road, was moved to begin fund-raising after reading about the national charity SENSE, which helps people who are both deaf and blind.

Now she is hosting a 'silent auction' at the town's recreation ground on June 19 and is planning to do a sponsored 12-day trek in the Himalayas in October.

Other planned events include a sponsored swim with daughters Natalie, nine, and Hayley, seven.

"To be both blind and deaf is totalling isolating," Lorraine said this week. "These people need all the help they can get. Sometimes we are so busy we forget there are other people out there much less fortunate than ourselves, to be able to do something to help is very rewarding, a good feeling.

"I've never done anything like this before, I'm really looking forward to it."

Already local business and organisations have pledged goods and services for Lorraine's auction, in which participants submit written bids.

Successful bidders on the day will be able to pick up flying and golf lessons, haircuts and reflexology sessions, as well as meals out at pubs and restaurants throughout the Dunmow area.

"I've already had a great response from local business," Lorraine said. "I've certainly learned to ask for things. Many of the lots have been donated by local people, including paintings by local artists."

The auction, which Lorraine hopes will raise over £2,000, will include a variety of attractions - tethered balloon rides, a bouncy castle and children's games.

The event opens at 1pm.

If you would like to help Lorraine reach her target call 01371 878274.

Lorraine Clarke.

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