BYFORD villagers recently pulled together to put on the first village fete to be held in aid of their church for several years. The event was a resounding success and raised over £1,000 for church funds. It is hoped that it will now become an annual fixture.

The fete also served to launch the new fundraising venture for the church, the bonus ball lottery, with balls costing just £5 each per month and with a minimum weekly prize of £30.

The fete was a very traditional event and attracted many people of all ages, from near and afar. Delicious vintage cream teas were produced and served by Caroline Warren and Lynn Compton in the gardens of Lower Farmhouse Byford, home of Martin and Virginia Taylor. Visitors were able to enjoy glorious views over the River Wye and Herefordshire countryside from the gardens. Those requiring some shade were able to sit in the magnificent Bedouin tent provided by Major General and Mrs Arthur Denaro. A Pimm’s bar was also available in the garden for those really wanting to get into the ‘spirit’ of things!

In Garnons Estate’s Beet Yard adjacent, numerous stalls were set up, including bric a brac, cake and produce, clothing accessories, books etc etc and of course the inevitable raffle.

Children and adults were entertained with many traditional fete activities, including the wheel of fortune, splat the rat, quoits, swing ball, buried treasure, a golden egg tombola, name the bear, face painting and the extremely popular donkey and pony rides on Bert (a regular Byford Church visitor, especially at Christmas) and Annie and Farthing, two very friendly ponies.

A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon was enjoyed by all.