St Bartholomew’s Church in Tardebigge held its first ever Tardefest on Saturday 14 September with a wide variety of music, food and other activities hosted in and around the church grounds.
Dan Sealey (from the folk-rock band Ocean Colour Scene) opened TardeFest and performed for a couple of hours in the church, while a local micro-brewery served real ale and cider. Other musicians and local bands including The Shed Collective also played throughout the day in the church; there was also an ‘open mic’ slot.
“It was a fantastic day,” said Esther, who enjoyed listening to Dan Sealey.
A fun Dog Show was held in the meadow with categories including the Dog with the Waggiest Tail; Dog Most Like Their Owner; and Best Young Handler. The Dog Show proved to be very popular and enjoyed by children and adults alike.
“We all had a great afternoon,” said Louise – whose dog won Prettiest Bitch and Best in Show.
The Produce Show was successfully held in the Church Hall (having been held in church in previous years) and was well supported with many entries. The produce was auctioned late afternoon.
“It was a fabulous day. Thank you to all the volunteers who made it happen,” said Katherine – a cup winner in the Produce Show.
Entertainment on the lawn for the attendees and stall holders was provided by two saxophonists, Terry and Dawn, while teas and cakes were served, together with hot pork rolls and burgers (cooked on the BBQ).
“It was an absolutely wonderful day and thank you so much for letting me be a part of it,” said Holly, one of the external stall holders.
TardeFest closed with moving performances in the early evening from singer -songwriter Rob Halligan, who uses his music as a means to ‘explore hope in darkness, love over hatred and reconciliation’.
One of the organisers, Jane Hall, said: “What better way to close the summer and head into autumn with a Saturday spent at TardeFest! For many years we have held an annual Fair and Show; a Produce show and traditional stalls, but this was something a little bit different and it was great to see people enjoying themselves over the day. We’ll definitely be holding it again next September!”
