Hundreds enjoy Bishop Bob rock band battle

HUNDREDS of people descended on Sidmouth s Connaught Gardens for the Party in the Park on Saturday. The six hour music extravaganza celebrated the 1,100 anniversary of the diocese of Exeter and attracted both young and old. Performers from all over the

HUNDREDS of people descended on Sidmouth's Connaught Gardens for the 'Party in the Park' on Saturday.

The six hour music extravaganza celebrated the 1,100 anniversary of the diocese of Exeter and attracted both young and old.

Performers from all over the South West performed and the guest of honour, Bishop Bob Evens, was 'grilled' on stage during on-stage interviews.

Reverend Dave Brown, organiser, said: "It was a tremendous success. What pleased me the most was that through this event the church was able to challenge some of the stereotypes normally associated with it. Hopefully we were able to communicate just a little of the Christian gospel in a way that may make people think gain about matters of faith

"If this generation is to hear about Jesus we need to communicate it by some 21st Century method. I hope this event has helped to do that."

The final Battle of the Bands contest- with performers from Sidmouth College and The King's School- was also held.

Four bands including the 'Sherpas' and the 'Raphaelites' from Sidmouth College and 'The Rising' and 'You Wish You'd Prayed' from The King's School performed in the contest.

The Sherpas, which includes Jonah Hitchens, Lewis Beach-Barden, James Suke and Jake Daniel were crowned the winners and won a recording session.

Reverend Brown added: "The quality of the four school bands was very impressive.