HASLEMERE MP Jeremy Hunt helped pick the winning tickets in the ‘Big Christmas Raffle’ to support Stepping Stones School for children with special educational needs.

The raffle was mounted by the parents association and, thanks to generous support by local businesses, raised more than £800 to help pay for extra outdoor facilities for pupils.

Mr Hunt, the Tory Health Secretary, was joined by parents and friends at Hindhead’s Cookie Bar Cafe – a social enterprise organisation that re-invests parts of the money it makes back into the local community.

PA chairman Naz Saeed said: “We were very pleased Jeremy Hunt was able to come along and draw a few winning tickets, showing his continuing support,”

Mr Hunt told The Herald: “I was delighted to take part in the ‘Big Christmas Raffle’ draw at the Cookie Bar in support of Stepping Stones School, in Hindhead.

“I hope the raffle raises a good amount of money for the school and enables it to purchase the outdoor seating and play equipment needed.”