SPREYTON St Michael?s Church Fayre and Bellringing Festival celebrates its 41st event on Saturday.

The origins of the event date back to an inspection of the church in the early 1960s which revealed major repairs were needed to the tower, roof and floor. An appeal to raise the £2,000 needed was made to residents and traders within the parish.

The Parochial Church Council considered different fund-raising options but decided on a fayre held near the date of the old revel, the third Saturday in June. It was also decided to hold the village?s first ever bellringing competition. Former MP and Spreyton resident, the Second Viscount Lambert agreed to donate a shield.

Teams from all over Devon entered the first bellringing contest, which was won by Spreyton much to the delight of Lord Lambert.

The first fayre included an evening ram roast and step dancing on a wagon outside the White Hart ? now the Tom Cobley Tavern. The success of the event was such that it became an annual fixture in village life.

The event expanded to include a bingo, whist drive, quiz, six-a-side darts tournament, car treasure hunt, barbecue and boules.

In conjunction with this year?s event, there will be a special musical treat as Spreyton is fortunate to welcome back young Gregory Hookway to give a concert on his Copeman Hart organ on Friday, July 16. Tickets are available in advance as numbers are limited.

Over the years, the Tom Cobley Tavern has been the venue for many events, and organisers are grateful for their support.

This year?s chairman is John Williams. His wife Elizabeth and her assistants man the strawberry teas.

So why not come along this Saturday from 2pm to the village green and join in the fun.