You only have to ask!

As many readers of my Blog will know, on Saturday we are hosting a Music in the Meadow event in aid of STEPS charity and the Matt Hampson Trust as well as our local village hall and Church. It is a pop concert not a classical one and over the last few years the event has raised a substantial amount of money because, through the generosity of the companies who sponsor the event by offering goods and services for free, no expenses are deducted from the monies received. It works brilliantly.

Last year we added in a Tombola. Not a typical one where you might win a jar of jam, and if you’re really lucky, a bottle of Liebfraumilch, this Tombola is filled with amazing prizes that have been donated by all kinds of very generous companies. Christopher Ward, the luxury watchmaker has given us 15 watches; Fenwicks have given us a pile of lovely gifts; M & S have given us a Champagne Hamper with pink champagne, flutes, an ice bucket and five quality wines. The Co-op have given us a food hamper, Sainsbury’s - gift vouchers, local hotels have given us vouchers for meals for two, local entertainment destinations have given us family tickets, we’ve been given dozens of china tea sets, children’s toys and much, much more. Add into the mix that one in five tickets wins (instead of the usual ratio of one in ten) and it is not surprising that the Tombola is successful. Last year it raised £1500 on the night.

So why are people so generous? It is simply because we ask them. Most companies have items that are old stock, almost out of date, or hold little value to them but they are great for us! Last year people were leaving the Tombola tent laden with goods and that inspired massive interest for others to have a go. People were queuing for 1½ hours! No-one was disappointed.

So, today I’m off to cadge some more goods from shops I support throughout the year and now it’s my turn to ask for a favour. I have not been turned down yet!

If you think you might like to come to the event on Saturday, check out www.musicinthemeadow.co.uk. Tickets cost £20 for adults, £5 for children. Bring your own food and drink and you can buy Pimms or wine on the night if you wish. It’s free car parking. You can pay on the gate which opens at 5 pm and we expect it to go on till late. And the weather is looking good too! It will be a great night.