THE 25th anniversary of a fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Support definitely had a silver lining.
Not only did the rain hold off for the annual summer fete in the garden of Bicknoller residents Bill and Maggie Pumphrey last Saturday – but the event also raised £3,750.
Mrs Pumphrey, who is chairman of the charity’s Coleridge Committee, said: “It is incredible to think that we started as a ‘one off’ small event with the band, teas, raffle and a few side shows.
“And that we have grown to the extent that we are still running it after 26 years – with only one cancelled event.”
The fete has had many constant features, including live music always provided by the West Somerset Brass Band and a host of traditional attractions.
Croquet and ‘bash the rat’ proved to be amongst the most popular this year but face painting – new for 2015 – also drew the crowds.
At least 400 people flocked through the garden gates, with visitors coming from as far away as Taunton, Chard and Burnham-on-Sea.
Mrs Pumphrey said the event would not exist without the help and support of so many people, including Bicknoller residents, around 30 of whom manned stalls, collected admission fees and acted as parking attendants.
“We had some excellent teams helping to move tables and chairs from the village hall the day before, another team working hard on the Friday evening and through to Saturday morning.
“We could not do it without so many willing helpers working so well together – we owe them all a huge thank you.”
This year’s profit brings the total raised for Macmillan Cancer Support from the 25 fetes to more than £55,000.
More pictures in the Free Press.