Big Weekend back with a bang

RESIDENTS and visitors to Buckfastleigh flocked to the Orchard Millennium Green for some more fun afternoons in the Sun, writes Adam Clark.

The Orchard Millennium Green trust welcomed patrons to a bumper weekend event featuring as ever, many activities and attractions.

On another scorching weekend, visitors were able to play some games, enjoy a juicy burger from the barbecue as well as other refreshments, speak with representatives from a variety organisations and enjoy some live performances.

And of course, the day included the famous duck race, where 700 of the bathtub variety, raced down the River Mardle – a slow paced race this year, with the lead changing constantly – but the ducks overcame a variety of obstacles including a slow current, shallow water as well as some real ducks, with the winners bagging their backers some cash prizes.

Speaking on behalf of the Trustees, Trefor Jones said: ‘Once again, I am delighted at the success of the weekend’s events and would like to thank all the individuals and organisations for their contributions to making such a great two afternoons.

‘It was fantastic to see so many members of the community pay us a visit and we look forward to offering more events in the future.’

Organisers were also delighted to welcome some special guests including a variety of community organisations such as Dartmoor National Park, Buckfastleigh Mothers Union and Moor Fun Events.

It may be summer, but plans for events later in the year are already in the pipeline and the Buckfastleigh Christmas Fayre was also in attendance drumming up some support, whilst Buckfastleigh Food Bank were offering information on their services (plus some free treats) and Below Zero were offering some much needed, homemade ice creams to patrons.

There were also representations from the 1st Buckfastleigh Scouts, Valiant Soldier Museum, Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Rotary Club, the Buckfastleigh Branch of the Royal British Legion and Teignbridge Home Start.

Saturday afternoon also saw visitors treated to a performance by a Jazz Trio lead by John Shillitto, a jazz musician for nearly 70 years and whom has already wowed audiences across the region this year alone.

Meanwhile, patrons on Sunday, enjoyed a performance by Desperate Measures, a Jazz band based in Meavy and featuring musicians from across Devon and Cornwall.

In addition, the Green also received a visit by an Owl by the name of Wizzie (accompanied by a few furry friends) who delighted in having so many visitors make a fuss of them.

Mr Jones reiterated the Trust’s delight and gratitude for a brilliant, bumper weekend of activities and encouraged interested individuals to come forward and contribute to the Orchard Millennium Green’s future success.

‘Being part of the trust doesn’t necessarily have to involve a huge commitment, but if you would like to participate in a variety of events for the benefit of the community, or indeed have an idea for an event you would like to organise, please do get in contact with the Trust.’

In the meantime, the Trust’s flagship ‘Tea on the Green’ afternoons are up and running for the Summer season (having recently celebrated its 10th Anniversary), offering patrons the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing cuppa and a slice of cake, within the beautiful surroundings of the Green on a Sunday afternoon.

The Trust looks forward to offering the community more events and activities in the near future and looks forward to welcoming everyone back to the Orchard Millennium Green again soon.