Shropshire Star

Video and pictures: Market Drayton bush tucker charity ordeal held in memory of colleague

Staff at one of Shropshire's major employers held a fundraising day in memory of one of their former colleagues who died from cancer at the age of 58.

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The event was held at Palethorpes Bakery in Market Drayton to commemorate the life of Simon Beresford.

Mr Beresford, who lived in the town, passed away in April after being diagnosed with sarcoma, a cancerous tumour, in November.

Inspired by popular ITV show I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, the fundraiser featured a bush tucker trial and eating competition.

The event, which also featured a raffle when it was held on Friday afternoon, was raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Jordan Hutchinson, who helped organise the event, said Mr Beresford had worked for the firm for more than 10 years, including as an operator.

"It was tragic when we heard the news. He was a big part of the community and a massive part of Palethorpes," he said.

"Friday's event was horrible. I was sick quite a bit as we had to eat a lot of rubbish.

"We had worms to start with followed by pickled catfish which was one of the worst things we had to eat.

"We also had fermented duck egg which was surprisingly not too bad.

"The fourth thing we had to eat was chicken feet, and we ended with fish eye which is one of the worst things I have put in my mouth.

"I think we have raised about £600 but we are hopeful of getting a bit more. We will be raising more money for the charity but we need time to recover from this first."

Classic car enthusiast Mr Beresford was the founder of the Wharf Classic Car Show which has grown in popularity over the last 22 years and takes place at the Wharf Tavern, near Market Drayton.

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