The annual event was a huge success with people flocking in for a free barbecue, sports, games, face painting, music and displays by community organisations.

 

Minister, Rev Nigel Fox, said: “Despite the threat of a shower, we were hugely blessed with one of the largest crowds we've witnessed in recent years. We estimate that a few hundred local folk were enjoying themselves. We had underestimated public demand and the barbecue burgers and sausages soon ran out, and we had to order in more. Our refreshments team were in demand continuously for around 4-5 hours.

 

“Local band the Frozen Raspberries kept us all entertained with several sets of live music, which was much appreciated. A bouncy castle, some sumo suits, penalty shoot-out competition, face painting, table tennis, table-football and various other games kept youngsters well-occupied. There was indoor short-mat bowls, and an art exhibition staged by our Art Fellowship.

 

“We deliberately wanted to offer the day to the local community for free, with no hidden charges for extras - and yet so many were bemused at the thought of it being a free afternoon out,” said Nigel.

 

“It seems that the godly principle of giving something away - for free - remains a mystery. But God loves us freely. It's grace, and how else can we embody the grace of God? It really was a pleasure to offer an event like this to the local community, and we're already looking forward to doing it again in 2012 – probably on May 26.