St Bartholomew's Church: First TardeFest is huge success

St Bartholomew's Church in Tardebigge held its first ever TardeFest on Saturday, September 14 in the church grounds. 

Dan Sealey, from folk-rock band Ocean Colour Scene, opened TardeFest and treated visitors to a special two-hour performance in the church. 

Dan Sealey performing in the church (Image: St Bartholomew’s Church) A local micro-brewery were also on hand to serve real ale and cider throughout the day. 

Other musicians and local bands including The Shed Collective also played in the church and there was even an open mic slot. 

One of the organisers, Jane Hall, said: "What better way to close the summer and head into autumn than with a Saturday spent at TardeFest. 

"For many years we have held an annual fair and show but this was something a little bit different and it was great to see people enjoying themselves over the day. 

"We'll definitely be holding it again next September." 

The dog show was very popular (Image: St Bartholomew’s Church) A fun dog show was held in the meadow with categories including the dog with the waggiest tail, dog most like their owner and best young handler. 

The dog show proved very popular and was enjoyed by both the children and adults. 

 The produce show was also successfully held in the church hall and was well supported with many entries. 

All the produce was auctioned off in the late afternoon. 

Dan Sealey opening TardeFest (Image: St Bartholomew’s Church) Visitors praised the event calling it a "fabulous day" with many thanking the volunteers that helped make it happen. 

One stall holder said: "It was an absolutely wonderful day and thank you so much for letting me be a part of it." 

Dan Sealey performed in the church for a couple of hours (Image: St Bartholomew’s Church)

Entertainment could be found on the lawn along with the stall holders. 

Visitors were treated to performances from two saxophonists whilst tea and cakes were served alongside hot pork rolls and burgers from the BBQ. 

TardeFest closed with moving performances in the early evening from singer-songwriter Rob Halligan who uses his music as a means to "explore hope in darkness, love over hatred and reconciliation".