Work of ShelterBox supported by 400-strong crowd at Sidmouth’s 57th festival service at Connaught Gardens

FINDING new songs was the theme of the 57th Sidmouth Festival Service, held at Connaught Gardens on Sunday as part of FolkWeek.

Dr. Peter Fung conducted the service and also led the music on his guitar. He was well supported by local musicians and the festival choir.

Sidmouth youth pastor Kate Hamilton was one of those to speak on the New Songs theme, involving youngsters in an amusing puppet performance about singing, whether on your own or joining in with a crowd.

Retired local minister, the Reverend David Lewis, spoke of those for whom life had lost its first excitement, whether through pressures of work or family commitments.

He said trusting in God put a ‘new song’ in their hearts.

Many of the 400-strong crowd were visitors to Sidmouth, some of whom return each year, describing the service as their festival highlight.

Their offering, totalling �1,500, will go towards the work of the charity ShelterBox, which is currently committed to helping drought victims in East Africa.