A FOLK dance and pasty supper raised £700 for charity, in a joint fundraising drive by the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) and Farm Crisis Network (FCN).

Held at Tavistock Town Hall on March 19, music for the evening was provided by the Dartmoor Pixie Band – a band whose origins are almost as old as the RABI, which this year celebrates its 150th anniversary.

The band's current line-up includes Mark Bazeley, who is continuing the tradition set by his late grandfather, Bob Cann. Bob was born near Whiddon Down in 1916 into an already established musical family and traced his folk roots back to the 1800s. Mark's wife Sarah is the band's resident caller.

RABI provides welfare advice and financial help to members of the farming community who are suffering crisis.

RABI Devon committee chairman Celia Hyland said: 'It was a wonderful evening with a lovely atmosphere and great music. It's important for us to raise funds, but it's also good to have opportunities like this for people to get out and enjoy themselves, especially after such a bad winter! Thank you to everyone who helped to make it so enjoyable.'

FCN provides pastoral and practical support to farming people during periods of difficulty, anxiety and stress.

FCN co-ordinator Peter Clarke said: 'The evening was a great success, not only in the enjoyment of all those who attended, but also by raising the profile of the two charities, both of which benefited financially.

'The band and their caller were excellent and the floor was filled for the whole evening. I'd like to thank Pearl Dawe and her willing team for all the effort that was put in to the evening, along with those who supplied the excellent buffet and gave such generous prizes for the draw.'

For information about help available for farming families call the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution helpline on 01865 727888, or the Farm Crisis Network on 0845 367 9990.