TLRT Publicity - Coffee Morning beats the weather
In spite of a major shower when setting up and a cold wind, more people than ever came to support the last Labrador Trust Coffee Morning at How Park Farm. Rather than sitting around for a natter with their coffee, the visitors kept moving, visiting all the stalls.
This year's raffle had as top prizes £40 towards lunch at the Clos du Marquis, three roses from Pococks Roses and a wonderful resin bronze of a labrador donated by the sculptor Mary Beattie Scott.
The Labrador Trust stall, manned by Philippa Sheppard and her team, sold Christmas cards etc and was well supported as were the bric-a-brac and children's stalls. There were also stalls for Jo Sunter (prints of labradors), Phil Webb (dog food - he delivers, too) and Matt Watson (animal photographer).
Oliver Smith, aged 4, allowed his Bouncy Castle to attract the younger visitors. They spent several happy hours bouncing away and not feeling the cold.
The produce and cake stall sold out very early. Sarah Beaurain manned the silent auction of dog food donated by Tony Monk. She also sold bags with a labrador motif which she had made. The book stall and tombola survived the weather on the back terrace.
The car park in the paddock, supervised by Dennis Bailey and Peter John, was full to overflowing. They also helped the disabled to park in front of the house.
The kitchen (most important for a coffee morning) was manned by Avril Allen and her team. Everyone was grateful for a hot cup on such a day.
In all, the day raised the amazing total of £2,111.50. This was helped by some of Caroline's bed and breakfast guests. Other donations are still to come.
At the end of the morning, Philippa Sheppard and Jen Richardson, treasurer of Labrador Rescue, presented Caroline with a splendid tree. This is now planted on the back lawn as a reminder of all the labradors.
Although this was the last time that Caroline Halse will be hosting the event at How Park, it will continue. Look out for news of next year's event at a location not too far away.