Christmas In The Park Proves Success

Hundreds of villagers enjoyed hot food, mulled wine and music from the 20-piece Bath Spa Brass Band at Peasedown’s third Christmas in the Park just before Christmas.

Held at Beacon Hall in Peasedown St John, it was organised by community activists and local parish councillors Jo Davis and Karen Walker, with support from the Party in the Park Management Team.

Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, a huge range of top prizes were given away during the evening, including four tickets to a Bath Rugby game next year, a signed Bath Rugby shirt, signed England Rugby shirt, and a meal for two at the Wheatsheaf, Combe Hay.

Jo Davis commented: “We wanted to hold a Christmas event that brought the community together. Similar to Party in the Park, we wanted to give people the chance to meet their neighbours and make new friends.

“The evening certainly did all of this with its magical feel and a special visit from Father Christmas.”

Throughout the evening, pork rolls and mince pies were on sale and a bar was open selling a range of drinks. Entertainment was provided by Peasedown Puppets, a local puppetry group that travels all over the UK, and a special performance from Leasa Keen’s Zumba group.

Almost £1,000 was raised, which will be reinvested in future Christmas in the Park and Party in the Park events.

Karen Walker added: “I’d like to thank everyone for coming to Christmas in the Park. Because hundreds of people from the community supported us we were able to celebrate Christmas in style and are looking forward to holding the event again next year.

“We would also like to thank the organisations who sponsored us, whose support was invaluable – Cllr Sarah Bevan through her Initiative Fund, Lilley’s Cider Barn and Bath Audi.”

Christmas in the Park was held on Friday 21^st December in Peasedown St John and is part of the Party in the Park brand.

Local community radio station Somer Valley FM came along to record the music and interview those involved with the event. They can be listened to online at www.thecommunityshow.co.uk

The PA equipment was provided by St John’s Church. Members of the Methodist Church led carol singing with the Bath Spa Brass Band.

For more details and to see photos from the event visit www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk