A MAN who criticised Bow for being "depressing" and "a place to avoid" was invited to officially open a celebration of music, art and local crafts in the village would have a great time – had he arrived!

Simon Heptinstall sent last minute apologies to say he was unable to attend.

Mick Richards, chairman of Bow Village Centre committee, the group which organised the event, welcomed a new guest to open the event, titled "Heart of Devon", with a "cheer".

Hazel John (64), from Bow, became a local and national celebrity, recently on our tv screens in the third series of the locally-filmed BBC show, Jam and Jerusalem.

The Bow event featured singer/songwriter, Reg Meuross and one of the finest exponents of the piano accordion, Karen Tweed.

Also on the bill was Nick Scott, formerly of "Last Night's Fun" and local beatboxer sensation, Alex Norgate.

Different bands, groups and individual musicians or singers, appeared on the main stage to entertain throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

There were more than 15 art and local craft stalls, displays about village organisations and a line dancing demonstration.

There was a tug-of-war competition and licensed bar and refreshments available.

Admission was free because the event was also celebrating the dispersal of funds from the sale of the Village Centre."

Mr Richards told the Courier: "The money raised from the sale of the old school building in Bow was nearly £260,000 .

This was shared amongst the following groups for projects in Bow and the surrounding area.

He explained that the donations made to projects included:

Bow and Arrow (village magazine) - A new computer and software; Bow History Society - 1889 map, laptop, scanner, archive storage and training; Zeal Fishing Club - donation towards access for the disabled; Zeal Monachorum Parish - refurbishment of shelter; Zeal Monachorum Village Hall - replacement windows, water heater, tables; Bow Playgroup - play equipment; Bow Short Mat Bowls - bowling mat fenders; Bow Cinema Club - donation; Bow Twinning - web archive; Bow Village Hall - new roof, ceiling, disabled access and toilet, secure cabinet; Swimming Pool - Solar heating for pool.

Mr Richards added: "The committee has also purchased a large field on the outskirts of the village which will be leased to the Burston Meadow Recreational Group.

"The group has plans to offer sporting facilities for the surrounding area and has been raising funds for a number of years for this project.

"They have full support from local groups including the local parish and district councils and purchasing this land will enable them to start very soon."