Festivities bring out best

About $5000 was raised for two Martinborough men who are battling their way back to health.

The Martinborough Community Christmas Party 2012 on Sunday benefited volunteer firefighter Peter Fisher and farm worker Brian Renwick.

Leah Hawkins, one of the organisers, said the party helped raise funds for the families dealing with the rehabilitation process.

Mr Fisher was attacked in late October after he tried to eject a gatecrasher from a gathering of young people in Broadway St. He is expected to be allowed home from a rehabilitation unit next month.

Mr Renwick was flown to Wellington Hospital not long before the attack on Mr Fisher, after an incident involving a seed-planting machine on Pirinoa Station.

Miss Hawkins said about 200 adults and children turned out to the $25-a-ticket event.

"It was a real family event. The kids were able to play, and had fun dancing," she said.

Miss Hawkins said the families of the men were impressed with how the community had come together.

"Both families came and said a few words to thank everyone for coming," she said. "They just thought it was amazing."

She estimated about $5000 was raised at the event.

Martinborough Fire Brigade member Wayne Thomas said it was a great cause.

"It's awesome that these guys have done this for our old mate Pete, and Brian," he said.

The crowd was entertained by DJ Bad Man Dr D, Short Circuit and The Noodles.