Tea at the Ritz, Cotterstock Style

April 2012

This event was organised because of the generosity of Ann and James Simpson who donated the use of their marquee and garden. The Sunday was a typical summer's day with unremitting pouring rain and blustery winds, so setting up for the event was quite challenging, but once inside the marquee with the industrial heater blowing and volunteers aplenty it was indeed transformed into Cotterstock's version of The Ritz.

By the time the first customers arrived both the Maitre d', Adrian Eldridge and the champagne sommelier, Viscount Addison were in position in full regalia to provide a hearty welcome.  With the pianist Nathan Binmore playing and our waiters and waitresses serving delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes (all made by villagers) no one worried about the weather.  Alongside all this, in our Church there was an organ recital, stunning floral displays and tours with the Reverends David Bond and Brian Rogers. The day ended with Evensong with Reverend Brian Rogers where his appropriately chosen theme was "community".  We raised £1424 for St Andrew's and are very grateful to everyone that helped to stage this event and to everyone who came and supported it - it really was Cotterstock at its best.