Saltstone Caring, the Kingsbridge based charity providing a free befriending service for the area, held a waterfront garden party to raise funds.

Held on Saturday, June 24, at Lower Barn, Halwell Farm, South Pool, the venue was kindly provided by Mr and Mrs David Lovett.

Event facilitator and charity trustee Sandy Gilbert said: “The very fine gardens are a hidden gem, sweeping down to the waters of the estuary. The day started with very uncertain weather, nerves were fraught as the mist and drizzle rolled in, however all held steady under fire and well over 200 guests arrived and were later rewarded with some afternoon sunshine.”

Cllr Rufus Gilbert manned the gate and said “what a perfectly splendid occasion, well supported and enjoyed. The services of Saltstone Caring are needed more than ever, money is increasingly harder to source.

“I am hoping to give more to the charity from my Devon County Council allocation fund. This is just the sort of community effort that qualifies for this support.”

The venue included a courtyard with mature olive trees where visitors were entertained by belly dancer, Ruby Azar - AKA Alison Theaker. Ruby took time out from a very busy schedule to entertain the crowd.

A resident Hobbit, AKA David Spencer, led Hobbit tours through a five-acre wood to a secret Hobbit house, threading through a Nature Trail kindly laid out by Rod Birtles.

Cream teas were enjoyed, served by a team of Saltstone volunteers led by Judy Hudes. The Pimm’s flowed, while visitors browsed the very high quality craft stalls. Dominic of the Kingsbridge Wine Room shared wine and knowledge on the borders of a garden of raised beds.

A tasty BBQ was provided by Bill and Sylvia Grahamslaw. The atmosphere of the entire afternoon was upbeat and vibrant.

Sandy continued: “The trustees have received emails of appreciation for the day. None of this would have been possible without the solid support of Saltstone volunteers who made cakes, contributed plants, books and generous donations.

“Particular thanks goes to those who turned up on the day and worked so hard. Saltstone Caring also wants to thank everyone that came along and supported the event by enjoying themselves and spending money to the tune of £2,366.33 and rising!

“Barclays Bank are providing matched funding up to £1000. Watch the Gazette for an update on the full and final amount.”

The other event facilitator and charity trustee, Elizabeth Bennett, said: “We wanted to flag up the name of Saltstone Caring and what it offers to a wider catchment area. The event was a great success, we have not only raised a record amount for a single event to augment much needed funds, but more people now know who we are, where we are and what we do.

“On behalf of Saltstone Caring we give grateful thanks to Susan and David Lovett, our most generous hosts.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or helping out in any way, Saltstone Caring is based at Quay House, Ilbert Road, Kingsbridge, TQ7 1DZ. You can contact them on: 01548 854588 or email: [email protected]