After a distinctly unsettled week of weather, Saturday 25th JuneIMG_0497 turned out to be a sunny hot day in Shaldon, perfect for the Friends 2011 Picnic in the Gardens.Once again (and in spite of last years dreadful weather for the event) more than 200 people, many of them suitably attired in 30’s dress, turned up with their marquees and picnic baskets for an evening of entertainment and fun around the castle.

Entertainment was provided once again by “Speakeasy”, joined this year by “Kit Hillbillies” and compere for the evening Elphic the Clown.  The beautiful evening also encouraged the guests to make their own fun, and unscheduled entertainment was provided by the ‘flappers’ and their dance routines.  As the evening wore on more people joined in so that the pathway from the castle was full of couples dancing to the music of “Speakeasy”.

Overall the evening was hugely enjoyable – apparently one marquee was still partying at 2am!  The event also raised some very useful funds for the Friends to help with the continuing development and improvement of the Gardens.  Many thanks to Alec Colyer and his hard working team for organising and staging the event again this year.  Of course before the site was even cleared up on Sunday morning the ideas for next year’s event are flying around.

Some pictures of the event can be found here.

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