Fundraising disco to aid purchase of second gig for Sidmouth

FUNDRAISING efforts for Sidmouth Gig Club continue next Saturday (December 11) with a 70’s disco and buffet at Port Royal Club.

Fancy dress is encouraged and prizes will be awarded to the best dressed man and woman.

Tickets are �10, available from Winchester’s fruit shop, High Street, Sidmouth.

A recent wine tasting at the Masonic Hall, hosted by Christopher Piper Wines of Ottery St Mary, raised an impressive �456 towards the purchase of a second gig. More than 60 locals supported the evening, each paying �10 for a meal and wine.

Some �400 came from a prize draw and auction of ‘moonshine’ liquor and six fine wines, donated by Christopher Piper Wines.

Nigel Winchester said: “Much of this was thanks to Max Hansford outbidding everyone in purchasing the moonshine. He then encouraged guests to ‘taste’ the liquor, charging them to have shots of the tipple. This really helped with fundraising!”

Sidmouth Gig Club has received three further cheques for �250 from local businesses.

Since launching the club’s fibreglass boat Alma in September, more than 30 different rowers have enjoyed a stint at rowing along the local coastline under the watchful eye of cox, Derek Posta.

Rowing sessions take place on a Sunday, weather and sea-permitting, from 10.30am at the Port Royal Club.

Steven Kendall-Tory of Pure Indulgence said this week: “I have been involved with sea-based activities since I was a young boy and am looking forward to seeing more activity and fun return to the sea and seafront.”

An enthusiasic Martyn Fisher of the Hunter’s Moon Hotel said: “I have been involved with the sea all my life and am very excited about training for the vet’s team.

“Gig racing will be a great spectacle for Sidmouth, especially when the time comes to host a gig regatta in Sidmouth- bring it on!”

Stuart Hayman of Hayman’s Butchers added: “As a youngster, all my interests were sea-orientated- angling, rowing and sailing.

“I am delighted to see more involvement with the sea and am looking forward to having a row myself after a gap of some 30 years.”

You can contact the club on 07979 970711 after 4pm on the Saturday before a rowing session.