A village has rallied together after Storm Bert blew down its Christmas fair marquee at the weekend.

High winds wrecked the tent which had been erected at Hersden Community Centre in preparation for the event this Saturday.

Organisers were left dismayed, but have thankfully been loaned a smaller marquee, meaning the show can now go on.

A fundraising page has also been set up which has already gathered more than £2,000 towards the cost of a same size replacement.

Community Centre manager Jack Brabham says he was “lost for words” when their marquee was flattened.

“We had secured it down with extra straps due to the predicted high winds but it wasn’t enough and once it got hold, there was no stopping it,” he said.

“Unfortunately, it could not be salvaged and only had scrap value.”

It was a bitter blow for the centre which bought the marquee for village events about three years ago as it would work out cheaper than repeatedly hiring one.

“We were determined the show would go on and fortunately the community and businesses have rallied to help out,” said Mr Brabham.

“We have been loaned a smaller replacement and our lighting supplier has offered us new lights.”

He added: “I really appreciate everyone’s support and concerns, especially Adam Buggs who has donated £1,300 to the appeal.

“Our friends at the welfare club have started a fundraiser to assist with replacing our marquee and I speak for us all at the centre and thank everyone who has donated to the cause.”

The fair runs between 11am and 3pm on Saturday and will feature festive food and drink, craft stall, games and a visit from Father Christmas.

Storm Bert caused issues on the roads and on the railways throughout the county, with fallen trees the main culprits.

Hundreds of homes were left without power around Canterbury, Swale and Medway because of the weather.