A FLAG-BEDECKED party room — actually a hastily-transformed garage — was the venue for an early celebration of the Queen's Golden Jubilee by YelverCare.

Clients and volunteers of the organisation last Sunday turned their annual tea party into the special occasion. More than 90 people replied to the invitation.

With cold winds and rain threatening, hosts Anne and Brian Medhurst's garage was hastily transformed, with red, white and blue dominating the walls and the Union flag in pride of place.

The musical interlude was provided by the Harlequin Singers, who sang two sessions of folk and popular songs — specially arranged for the occasion by director Nicholas Marshall. Songs from the two world wars were included, with some well-known ballads and more rousing songs.

A letter of congratulations is to be sent to the Queen from the group.

Chairman Brian Medhurst said the occasion also celebrated the 'wonderful community spirit alive in Yelverton'. The volunteers were to be congratulated on the work they did for their neighbours, he said, but there was an increasing demand for volunteers.

'We do not let people down, so we could do with a few more helping hands — especially more drivers to spread the load on some days to take clients to important appointments,' he said.

Anyone in the Yelverton or Buckland Monachorum area who has even just one hour per month available is asked to contact YelverCare on 07775 695864 between 10am and 1pm Monday to Friday.