THE Age Concern Crediton & District Garden Party at Winswood House on Sunday, July 30 was a great success even though the rain may have kept a few people away.

Guests attending the fundraising event enjoyed a cream tea with a hot cuppa during the interval.

Those who braved the elements sheltered under gazebos and a marquee and enjoyed performances by (among others) members of the Parish Church Choir with soprano solos, duets, tenor solos, a short but extremely funny drama and solos from flute, piano and harp.

The music ranged from Mozart and Bach Gounod (among others) through Coward and Sondheim to Rogers and Hammerstein.

There were also some light-hearted readings and excellent a cappella renditions by Crediton group Ad Hoc.

John Musty of Age Concern said: "For some of the younger performers it was a first outing at a public event and it was a joy to see such talent blossoming in our midst.

"Fortunately the food store, raffle prizes, and plant stall were kept under cover out of the rain, and the proceeds of these made a significant contribution to the afternoon.

"More than 60 people attended and the final total raised was in excess of £550, which bridged the shortfall needed for us for to commence essential alterations to the Lady Mills Day Care Centre in Deep Lane: these will enable us to provide for more guests on a daily basis and offer a wider range of activities and facilities available for the local Community.

"We are deeply indebted to Richard and Stella Stevens for the use of their beautiful garden, Jo Ward for sound amplification, the helpful staff of Charlesworth Nichol Solicitors, and major sponsor Thomas Westcott."

John added: "Age Concern is a very friendly community resource, and visitors to the Lady Mills Centre are encouraged to experience our activities at first hand on weekdays between 10am and 2pm, and more specifically at our Annual General Meeting on Monday, September 25, at 4pm.

"As ever you will find that we are short of volunteers in all of our activities, and hope that amongst Courier readers more will feel the call to step forward."