Why not follow the example of one Oxfordshire parish, by holding an annual fundraising dinner in a local church?

The dinners were initiated by two ladies from Christchurch, Long Hanborough. In previous years, the late Miss Helen Gibson had run an annual sale, and after her death the ladies wanted to continue to hold a fundraising event in Helen’s memory.

Five years later, the annual event continues to attract around 50 guests for a home-cooked, four-course meal. Friends and members of local congregations come together both to help on the night and to join the occasion as paying guests.

This year guests enjoyed a starter of stuffed egg salad with warm bread, a main course of chicken casserole served with vegetables and roast potatoes and had a choice of 10 different desserts, provided by 10 friends of the event organisers. All this was followed by a cheese board, and topped off with tea or coffee and chocolates!

The meal is held in a church in the Christchurch Long Hanborough parish – one with chairs rather than pews, making for a handy part-time restaurant!

As well as a delicious meal, guests are also treated to entertainment each year, such as a pantomime, a fun poetry recital, or some singing. And all for just £10 per ticket! A bring-and-buy table provides a further source of income.

Each year the meal raises around £500 for mission around the world and is a wonderful opportunity for members of the parish of all ages to come together for a fun evening.

If you’d like to organise a similar event, please do email Hannah or phone on 01865 787521. We’d love to hear from you!

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Published: 11:30 AM Wednesday, February 02, 2011  |  529 views
Last updated: Monday, October 31, 2011
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