by Alan Quick

SANDFORD is hosting a one-day “not-for-profit” music-based event “Sandford Festival” aimed at all ages from 12 noon to midnight in Sandford Millennium Green tomorrow, Saturday, July 8.

The festival will incorporate a broad programme of activities and events including a Battle of the Bands, Poetry Slam, Dog Show, Craft activities, Food stalls, Bars and Bouncy assault course.

The event, being run by Sandford Scouts, will be raising funds for a community minibus for the Sandford area.

PAVILION OPENING BY JACK YEANDLE

Also tomorrow, Saturday, the new Sports Pavilion, at Sandford Playing Field, will be opened at 2.30pm, by Jack Yeandle, Exeter Chiefs rugby union player and captain, as part of the Festival.

Hooker, Devon-born Yeandle (27) started his rugby playing career with Crediton RFC before playing for Doncaster Knights from 2011-12 and has since made 83 appearances with Exeter Chiefs.

The new facility will provide a home, not only for Sandford AFC but also for the community to use, including Sandford School and Sandford Tennis Club. The new building will include changing facilities, showers, toilets, a kitchen etc.

The building works were undertaken by Crediton builder, Ross Stephens and the principal designer was Ian Darling of Ian Darling Design.

Contract manager for the build was Sandford councillor Andrew Webb.

Funding was also provided by Devon County Council from the Locality Budget from local county councillor, Mrs Margaret Squires.

A celebration cake will be cut to mark the opening and a toast will be made with Sandford Cider, kindly supplied by Sandford Orchards.

The pavilion also has a Community Room that can be used by parishioners.

In advance of the grand opening, a Litter Pick took place around the village on Monday, July 3.