A NUMBER of fascinating cultural events have raised more than £250 to help improve facilities at St Mary's Church, Throwleigh.

A musical extravaganza took place on Saturday September 25, with 25 singers and instrumentalists meeting at Gidleigh Church for a workshop directed by Peter Syrus, a Renaissance specialist from the Royal Northern College of Music.

The centrepiece of the day was a remarkable Salve Regina from the Eton Choirbook by Robert Wylkynson, written soon after 1500 and probably the first piece written for nine voices, representing the nine choirs of angels.

The day ended with a performance of this and works by Byrd, Gabrielli, Guerrero and Morales. On Sunday, the musicians moved to Throwleigh Church, raising £160 over the weekend.

Saturday October 16 saw an interesting and stimulating talk given by Sue Andrew on medieval roof bosses in Devon. The event, held at St Mary's, was organised by the Friends of Throwleigh Church, who provided hot drinks and cakes for the audience.

Sue's talk explored the rich legacy of medieval carving which survives in the roofs of our parish churches. The talk focussed on the decorative, social and religious contexts of the images, and was well-attended by an audience from as far afield as Exeter. The evening was free to attend, but donations totalled £94.

Jane Wisniewski, secretary of the Friends of Throwleigh Church, said the group will raise funds to improve and maintain the fabric of the church: 'Initially, the funds will be used to build a toilet for the church. Currently we have no facilities in Throwleigh, with the nearest public conveniences being over a mile away. Once we have built these facilities, we will continue to raise funds to maintain this beautiful building.'