Jo Aylwin, Bishop’s Meadow Trust Board Member, went to the recent Bridge Tea held to raise funds for the BMT. Read on to see what she has to say:
I am sure that you all know it is great to volunteer. Here is an example of why.
On 21st November, I was a volunteer at the now legendary Bridge Tea, organised by Tessa Trench – and it was great fun!
The Bridge Tea is held annually and is one of the Bishop’s Meadow Trust’s (BMT) major fundraising events. This year, 76 keen bridge players, drawn from local bridge clubs, took part at the St Joan’s Centre, Tilford Road, Farnham. Susan Bussell had control of the bell and the play.
BMT Board Member, Pippa Hoyland, gave the players news and an update about the BMT and explained the importance of the event for the Trust.
However, dare I say it, playing bridge is almost a secondary reason for attending. As a non-bridge player I am sorely tempted to book a table next year, just sit out the games and then have the opportunity of eating the wonderful food offered to the players at their half time break! “TEA” is too humble a description for the sumptuous feast of homemade meringues, scones, sausage rolls, cakes, tarts, biscuits and sandwiches – all prepared by the joint efforts of Susan Green and Meg Daniels.
Many of the players told me that it is the best tea they have ever had at such an event. The BMT is immensely grateful to Sue and Meg for the incredible effort they put into preparing and presenting the feast.
The BMT would also like to thank those who donated raffle prizes – including the Lavender Hill Company (www.lavenderhillcompany.com); CGJ Mathias & Son (www.hedgesonline.com); Squires Garden Centre (www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk/garden-centre/badshot-lea); Cafe Piccolo (www.caffepiccolo.co.uk/farnham); Alison Townsend (https://alisontownsend.wordpress.com); and Vaughan James Chemist in Farnham. The raffle was run by Bill Dolan and Peggy Banfield and raised a fantastic £220.
Many thanks to other volunteers on the day including Alison Gordon, Brian Daniels, Brian Martin and Nick Green.
Overall the Bridge Tea raised an amazing sum of £850. What a fantastic contribution to the work of the BMT so thanks again to all who took part.