A NUMBER of well-known Liskeard personalities got a soaking in the stocks in the town centre.

But this wasn't a matter of turning back the clock to bygone times and handing out punishment – instead it was for a charitable cause.

Among those in the stocks who received a soaking from wet sponges was town mayor Sue Pike.

'It was all great fun,' said the mayor, 'though I did think the young lad who dunked me with every shot took it a bit too seriously. But I did get him back!'

Town councillor Hella Tovar organised the event in aid of Water Aid UK on World Water Day.

In just 90 minutes of lobbing sponges at some good sports, a total of £135 was raised.

Hella said: 'Locals of all ages took part, with people recognising it as a good cause. The youngsters in particular seemed to relish being in the stocks as much as flinging the sponges.'

The mayor added that Water Aid was a charity very close to her heart.

'I spent 27 years of my life living in Africa and know only too well how important a clean and regular water supply to a community is,' she said.

First up in the stocks, and on the receiving end of water for a change, was Mark Blatchford from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service.

Also taking part were Hella herself, and husband John Tovar, chairman of the town forum.

Deputy mayor Phil Seeva and traders Andrew Beddoe, of Arcade Fruits, and Dean Petvin-Moore, of Liskeard Carpets, were among many others who were game for a laugh.