THERE was much to see and do when Down St Mary held its annual fair to raise funds for the village hall.

The afternoon began with the Hospsice Choir from Exeter showing off some of its repertoire. Choir master is Alfie Pugh, musical director of the jazz and swing band, The Locked Horns which has played at Buccaneers Bar, Crediton, on several occasions.

The Hospice Choir was formed about a year ago and this was one of its first public performances although its members sing at the Hospice every Tuesday.

Although it has some male singers, more would be welcomed. Anyone interested should contact the Hospice.

Among its bookings, the choir will be singing at the Light up a Life service in December at Exeter Cathedral and at Crediton Parish Church.

While a lot of work has been done, serious fundraising is still needed for Down St Mary Village Hall.

Chairman Andy Wyatt said there was double glazing to do plus some work on the floor.

“We have raised almost £4,000 in the past year. People have been so supporting of all the events and getting behind us.

“Three people in particular need thanking for the work today - Kathy, Tessa and Denise. They have done so much running around to make this event a success for the hall.

“Then there are the people such as Sylvia and John Seage who lent their barbecue, David and Chris Vennelle who lent the trailer again for a stage, and all the other people who had done so much for today,” said Andy.

He added that more events were planned for the village hall funds including a social evening and race night. People should be able to check on the Down St Mary website .

At the fair on Saturday there were craft and produce stalls, the bouncy castle donated by Sean who owns Inflatafun Bouncy Castle Hire based at Copplestone, a fancy dress competition, and lots more.

The afternoon was officially opened by Peter Craske, the man who has walked hundreds of miles to put together a number of books of walks based around the Tarka Line railway stations. He was selling and signing copies of his latest.

MC for the afternoon was Rob Pudner of Entertainingly Different. There was face painting, skittles, locally made garden furniture, bird boxes and garden tubs, paintings, jewellery, scarves, bags, and much more, including a bar.

Sue Read