TWO splendid evenings of entertainment provided by talented amateurs in Bere Ferrers raised more than £400 for the village children?s playground during sell-out performances earlier this month. The Bere Ferrers Variety Show, held in the church hall, featured a wide range of acts, all compered by Trevor Grinstead and assisted by daughter Abby Grinstead and May Smith. The Blaxton Band opened with a dramatic concoction using drums, guitar, spoons and tambourine. There were harp duets and solos, haunting Irish pieces for harp and recorders, and classical music on keyboard by Ann Parsons. Nelson Bowden recited his poems composed especially to celebrate Trafalgar. Graham Hodgson and Clive Charlton performed ?The Yarn of the Nancy Bell?, followed by a hilarious sketch of The Old Bazaar in Cairo by Bere Ferrers WI. Tavy Tars entertained in exuberant fashion, and Avril Butler recited Stanley Holloway?s ?Albert and the Lion?. Trio Tim Clark, daughter Poppy on saxophone and Tilly Kelly performed ?I?ve Got Rhythm? in sensational style, and Clive Charlton performed his version of Tavistock Goosey Fair. The Friday Night Singers? contribution included Scarborough Fair and Rosemary and Thyme, and the newly formed atmospheric Bere Band brought the evening to a close with everyone joining in ?If I had a Hammer?. Trevor Grinstead thanked everyone connected with the show, plus Steve Jackson (lighting), Karen (backstage), Lesley Smith and Margaret Willmott (ticket sales), Joe Gilling (scenery), Ann Parsons (keyboard). Ann Parsons was presented with flowers and Pearl Dawe, organiser, with fruit and flowers. The committee which organised the show said they were delighted with the support from the community and thanked everyone who had taken part, whether on stage or off. The event raised £480 for the playground.