Village barbecue raises £1,000 on return

MORE than £1,000 was raised at a community barbecue held in South Stoke recreation ground.

It was the first time the event had been held since the covid pandemic.

The barbecue was run by volunteers and there was a Pimm’s tent and a beer tent supplied by village brewer Ridgeway.

An auction included a guided wildlife walk, homemade meals and a pair of tickets to see England play Australia at Wembley next month.

John Lindley, who helped organise the event for the South Stoke Amenities Charity and the South Stoke Wildlife and Conservation Group, said: “It was a resounding success.

“We were amazed by the turnout, from locals to people who travelled from the wider community. It showed us why a village community is so important.

“There was a number of people who came who are new to our area. They were pleased to be part of such a cohesive community.

“We are grateful to the people who took part in our event. It has left us organisers confident to start making the barbecue an annual event once more.”