THE first ever lunchtime concert held at Sidmouth Parish Church has raised more than �1,000 for its re-ordering appeal.

THE first ever lunchtime concert held at Sidmouth Parish Church has raised more than �1,000 for its re-ordering appeal.

Around 100 people heard a mix of classical and contemporary music on Friday, and enjoyed sandwiches in the pews afterwards.

The event raised �561 but was boosted by a �500 donation.

Since the appeal's launch last September, parishioners have collected �90,000 towards their �250,000 share of the �500,000 re-ordering cost, and many have devised interesting ways of money-making.

This time it was the turn of the Rector's wife, Ruth James, who organised two concerts. They may become a regular event if successful.

Herself a violinist, Mrs James has played at other church concerts and knows members of Friday's musicians, The Beacon Trio - Joyce Clarke, piano, Anna Cockroft, violin and Ruth Lass on cello.

Mrs James said: "We have never had anything like it here. It is a new venture that filled a gap and brought everyone together in a new way."

Joy Peers, Valerie Chapman and Robbie Richards prepared and served sandwiches and drinks, while curate Val�ry Dunn organised publicity.

Rector, the Reverend Prebendary David James thanked the musicians for giving their time for the fundraiser and added: "There are more events in the planning, including a summer evening of music and food.

"We are hoping to start work on the re-ordering in April."

Singers Jacqui and John Kitchiner, accompanied by Frances Waters, piano, and Helen Organ on flute, will perform at the second lunchtime concert on Friday, March 27.