DESPITE a blustery afternoon with rain squalls, about 70 people went along to an open garden at Hittisleigh on Saturday, May 20, helping to raise about £600 for Kenwith Castle Nursing and Residential Home at Abbotsham near Bideford.

The garden was the work of John and Sue Painter, John’s parents live at Kenwith Castle and were helping at the open garden, his father was nursed there.

Cream teas were served, there was a plant stall and music was provided by Mains Gas, with Cole Porter and Gershwin featuring largely.

The band has been together for about five years with James Hudson on guitar, Kate Hudson vocals, both live not far from Hittisleigh. Phil Fowler of Chagford was also vocals, Brian Ward of Great Torrington, bass guitar.

They were usually joined by drummer Ben Moseley who farms near Hittisleigh, but Ben could not be there this time.

James said that he had wanted to get back to playing in a band when he retired, so he put out the word, everyone got together in Hittisleigh Village Hall and from this was formed Mains Gas.

The name came about because they mainly played music from the Great American Songbook (GAS).

However, they no longer have a pianist and are actively searching for someone. Anyone interested should contact: [email protected]

Mains Gas will be playing again on June 1 at Stone Lane Gardens not far from Drewsteignton, June 18 at Moreton Music Day when there will be 40 bands on four stages.

“We mostly play for fun,” said James. “We began together for fun.” They also play at private parties and other events.

This was the first time Mr and Mrs Painter had opened their garden. With wide views to Dartmoor, it still included sheltered corners in which to sit and admire the variety of plants.

Sue Read