Western Gazette 6 July 2006

SUN, FUN AND MUSIC MAKE FEST A SUCCESS

The Bee Hop Festival at Naish Farm proved to be a success on Saturday with more then 600 people attending.

The amount of money raised has not yet been finalised, but more than £1,000 was taken just from admissions.

Money is still to come from the stall holders, the prize draw and also from the bar.

All the money raised will go to the Holwell Church restoration project as the church roof needs repair work and internal repairs are needed due to the roof leaking.

One of the organisers, Emma Goss-Custard said: “The event went brilliantly and there was a magically mix of people.

“The bands were very good and this was recognised as many people did comment on their quality.”

Another of the organisers, Charlotte Drake said: “It was absolutely brilliant. We would like to thank all stall holders and the bands.”

“There was a wide range of music at the festival with nine bands playing and the music ranged from bagpipes, to reggae and hip hop.

“There was also a very popular crèche run by Holwell Nursery, and with the help of Dorset Doddlers, there were many activities for the children to enjoy, including races and face paints.”

The art trail was also a popular activity which was aimed at every age group.

The festival had lots of sponsorship from local businesses including the Country Catalogue in Pulham, Handley Cross Farm Foods and Mole Valley Farmers.

Another festival at Naish Farm is scheduled for next year.

Pictures by Jennie Banks.