In total contrast to the downpour which marred last year’s event, the 2010 Abbeyfield Summer Fete was blessed with lovely weather.

Enjoying the warm sunshine, those attending were able to mix and chat at leisure, amply refreshed at intervals by tea and homemade cakes, making it a happy social occasion. The garden of Macpherson House even had its own steam railway, which gave rides all afternoon!

Barbara Mills is very grateful to all those who provided and manned the stalls, and to those who attended and spent so generously.

The takings – still being counted – were excellent, and the money raised will be split between the Residents Amenities Funds at Legh House at Rylands Lane in Wyke and Macpherson House itself.

The Sutton Poyntz Society Cream Tea afternoon in the Mission Hall orchard was another huge success, and not only due to the sun, which came out just in time.

There were a number of passers-by in search of scarecrows who swelled the numbers, so much so that the supply of scones ran out and still people dropped in to enjoy a cup of tea.

Bill Egerton, collecting the money at the door – if an orchard can be said to have a door! – expressed himself very pleased with the turnout. It was nice to see so many children and grandchildren present, plus villagers returning after illness and others who were wheelchair-bound due to accidents.

It takes a lot to keep the locals from their cream tea, as the pictures show!

Betty Hennessey tells me that a ‘new to you’ toy sale will take place on Thursday 12 August in the Scutt Hall starting at 10.30am.

All moneys raised will go towards the Scutt Hall funds for benefit of the Weymouth East Scouts and Guides. Why not drop in, pick up a bargain and enjoy Preston’s own ‘Toy Story’?

Mel Dive says that as the end of term was drawing nigh, the August draw of the St Andrew’s School 200 club was held in late July in Mrs Shaw’s year 1 class.

The first prize of £50, drawn by Abigail Webster, went to Jane Easton; the £30 prize, drawn by Sophia Beaufils, went to Jacqui Williams Davey; the £15 prize, drawn by Jack Tewkesbury, to Laura James.

This monthly draw helps to supply facilities for the children in the school, so if you would like to take part give Mel (832467) a call.