ABF, the Soldiers’ Charity, Southwest Regional office team Regional Assistants Philip Hutchens and Helen Vincent organised the Picnic at Downes, which took place at Downes, Crediton, on Sunday, September 12, by kind permission of the Parker family.

The event was a great success, although how much was raised for the charity has not as yet been finalised.

Philip said: “This was the first event that the office at Wyvern Barracks has been able to organise since the start of the pandemic and it was certainly a great success even with the weather.”

On arrival the public were welcomed with a warm smile and refreshments kindly donated by Crediton’s Morrisons and Tesco stores.

Philip said that he would like to thank the community Champions (Sharon and Andrew) from both stores for their kindness and generosity in supporting the charity.

He added: “The Pimm’s was certainly a winner!”

Philip continued: “Pete Mansfield’s ‘Sounds of Brass’ quintet was outstanding and their performance was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience, even at the rehearsal their audience (livestock in the neighbouring field) thoroughly enjoyed the music and we almost had to change the name of the event to Downes-stock (a Devon version of Woodstock!).

“The picnic boxes supplied by Bernaville Nurseries were so well presented and those few who ordered a picnic box were absolutely delighted.

“Bernaville Nurseries kindly delivered the picnic boxes to Downes prior to the start of the concert, grateful thanks to Emma and Zoe.

“Finally, we must not forget the generosity of Henry and Susan Parker for allowing the charity to hold this event in the grounds at Downes with the outstanding and un-spoilt views across the Mid Devon valley.”