A GARDEN party in memory of a woman from Friern Barnet has helped raise over £3,500 for charity.

Over 200 people attended the event organised by Helen Fowell in honour of her neighbour and friend of 12 years, Jeanne Clarke who died of cancer aged 72 in 2009.

Guests were entertained with a tombola and raffle at Ms Fowell’s home in Hemington Avenue, and feasted on cream teas and a barbeque.

Ms Fowell, 48, said: “I’d wanted to do something special in memory of Jeanne because she was such a wonderful lady and made an impact on so many people’s lives. The day far exceeded my expectations - it was a dream come true.”

Miss Clarke used to teach at St John’s Primary School in Swan Lane, Whetstone, and taught music to children in the borough. She was also a silversmith and a keen golf player.

Ms Fowell said: “Jeanne was a dear friend - She was an amazing lady and very well thought of in the area.”

All the money donated at the garden party will go to North London Hospice in Woodside Avenue, North Finchley, where Miss Clarke visited in the last years of her life.

The hospice supports people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families, friends and carers.