The charity invited helpers to its AGM, where they were treated to a meal to celebrate the £20,000 raised during the three-day sale, which was held in the Festival Hall.

The event attracted hundreds of buyers and was packed throughout the three days.

Petersfield branch vice-chairman Prue Scurfield said: "Not only have we exceeded the amount by a considerable increase on last year, we could not have done it without the invaluable number of man hours donated by our volunteers.

"There is no way an event of this scale could be held without their tireless dedication.

"We are very proud of the selfless commitment of the Petersfield volunteer force."

Save the Children's Gemma Harris told helpers: "Thanks to the amount taken, I immediately thought of a Save the Children feeding centre that I visited in Niger earlier this year.

"It cost £20,000 to run a month and helps more than 300 children who are suffering from malnutrition.

"I hope you all feel very proud of what you're doing."