On Saturday 29th June, Second-Helpings hosted its fourth Open Garden Charity Day and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The weather graced us with beautiful sunshine, creating the ideal setting for a day of enjoyment and generosity.
Guests gathered under gazebos, seated at tables named after various herbs, each adorned with terracotta pots bearing the herb’s name. The crisp white tablecloths set a lovely backdrop for the vibrant, summer-themed meal that followed.
We began with crostini topped with cream cheese and a delightful mix of tomatoes and strawberries with a hint of basil. This was followed by a main course of salmon served with finely shredded vegetables in a hoisin sauce, accompanied by Jersey Royals, and a sweet chilli sauce. To finish, we indulged in lemon posset tart and fresh fruit salad.
Inside, an impressive array of homemade baked goods awaited: cheese scones, quiches, sausage rolls, and cakes of every variety including lemon meringue, raspberry, chocolate, Victoria sandwich, and chocolate chip rock cakes. Refreshments were highlighted by homemade lemonade, a refreshing complement to the delightful spread.
Throughout the day, Roger Hind’s three-piece jazz band provided a soothing soundtrack, enhancing the ambiance as guests enjoyed the sunshine, engaged in lively chatter, and basked in the company of friends and loved ones.
In addition to the culinary delights, guests had the opportunity to purchase plants from the lovely Morag of Rapkyns Nursery in Broad Oak, exquisite ceramics by Claire and Julia, and beautiful handmade jewellery crafted by Hatty from Frigg and Fauna.
Generous guests made donations upon entry and eagerly participated in the raffle. I am thrilled to announce that we raised an incredible £1,463, plus some additional gift aid, which will be divided between The Alzheimer’s Society and MacMillan Cancer Support, two charities close to our hearts.
This event would not have been possible without the extraordinary help of my brilliant friends and neighbours: Hilary and Andy, Sam and Jimmy, Nicola, Mary, Donna, Sam L, and Victoria. They were the best team one could ask for.
As the last guest departed, we enjoyed a special after-party, a perfect ending to a truly wonderful day.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came to support us and to those who lent us essential items from tea towels and tables to gazebos. Your generosity and support made this event a remarkable success.
Raffle prize winners:
Six litre bottle of Rose – Linda Reed / Life size cardboard cut out of King Charles – Barbara Sharville / Climbing Rose – Gail Bishop / Wine Tasting at Kingscote & Fourball for 18 holes at Horne – Anthony Morrisey / Ceramic Platter – Geoff & Mary Ledden / Tea Towells & bag – Luke / Diffuser – Kass Court / Whiskey – Mike Riddles / Necklace – Pauline Trigg / Prosecco – Jill Ritchie and a Salvia Plant – Peter Calnan
Special thanks to the stall holders (Morag, Hatty, Claire & Julia) and others who donated raffle prizes: Horne Golf Course Kingscote Vineyard Adam Wilson (pictured below with the wine, he came to collect it for Linda!) Donna Patterson, Hilary Levy, Nicola Calnan and Paul Davidson (husband)
Hip Hip Hooray & Huge Thanks !!!
