Enterprising young Devizes schoolgirl Grace Canfield has taken it upon herself to organise a fundraising fair in aid of Children in Need.

Seven-year-old Grace, a pupil at Wansdyke Primary School, said: “Me and my friends are so lucky to be so well and to have everything that we do and there are so many children out there who aren’t as lucky that I want to help.”

Grace, who lives in Potterne Road, has organised everything from finding a suitable free venue, designing the posters herself, sourcing raffle prizes and decorating the collecting tins.

She has even written a compelling letter to the Mayor, Coun Kelvin Nash, inviting him to come along and join in the fun and be the judge for the fancy dress competition and give out prizes. Coun Nash has accepted the invitation.

Grace has delegated other jobs like cake-making and party game planning to her family and friends, who are very proud of her.

Her mother, Sarah Canfield, said: “We are so proud of Grace and what she is doing for this fantastic cause. She has put so much time and effort into this and we very much hope that lots of other children will come along in support and join in the fun.

“We were talking in the car one day and she said she wanted to raise money for hungry children. I told her she would have to find a proper charity to do it through. She went away and had a think and eventually settled on Children in Need. She is quite serious about helping children worse off then herself.”

Grace’s event takes place on Saturday from 5pm to 7pm at The Southgate Inn’s skittle alley in Potterne Road, Devizes. Admission costs £2 per child, which includes a drink and snack.

Mrs Canfield added: “Children are invited to come along in fancy dress costume (no theme – anything goes). There will also be party games and prizes to be won and a yummy homemade cake sale, raffle and more.”

Anyone who is organising events in aid of Children in Need on November 16 is asked to contact the Gazette on (01380) 731692 or email lcowen@newswilts.co.uk