AN annual day of fun for parishioners in South Tawton which survived until the latter years of the last century will be revived this year.

Following on from earlier revels, the historic South Tawton ?Summer Event? was a big occasion in the village.

Now the enthusiasm of the vicar and local people has encouraged the revival of the traditional celebrations and food tasting on Saturday, July 10, set in and around St Andrew?s Church.

Church Ales, the precursors of ?revels? and ?events? are said to date back at least to the early 16th century.

Indeed, one author described the events which would take place on the Sabbath day as follows: ?The multitude called their revelying day, which day is spent in bullbeatyings, bearebeatings, bowlings, dycying, cardyng, daunsynges and drunkeness.?

The Rev Michael Thayer explained this year?s event would be a more refined affair!

Mr Thayer said lunches would be served in the historic Church House, followed by puddings in the church itself. In the evening, the South Zeal-based Moor Harmony choir will be holding a concert. Events for children are also planned during the day.

Mr Thayer said: ?Hopefully it will be a good fundraising event and also a community event which brings people together.?

Historically, a ?church house? leased by parishioners was, with the church itself, a centre for activities that included the brewing of the church ale, subscribed to in cash or in kind by residents of the parish.

Music makers were ever a part of the festivities and in addition to the choir, a local harpist has agreed to play background music during the lunches.

However, Mr Thayer said he was keen to hear from any other musicians who might be prepared to ?play for their lunch? and help ensure that music plays its part in the revival this summer.

Mr Thayer will be pleased to hear from any other musicians who would like to get involved on 01837 849048.