THE annual Patronal festival of St Melor was held at Linkinhorne Parish Church on September 17, beginning at 2.30pm with the dressing of the holy well.

A short walk to the well on a fabulous afternoon was attended by 20 people. Flower arrangements created by Jill Piper were placed on the well and worship leader, Judy Cooper, conducted the service. Everyone sampled the well water before returning to the church.

The Teddy tumble event followed the well dressing, organised by the 1st Linkinhorne Scout Group.

Very little breeze was an enormous advantage so that none ended up dangling from the high trees this year. Longest flight, adult winner’s bear ‘Dare to be bare’, Peter Sharp; shortest flight, ‘Gobo’, Edward Doney; children’s winner, longest flight, ‘Po’, Amy Robertson’ shortest flight, ‘Shark’, Sam Robertson.

Tea followed and the 20th teddy tumble celebration cake, made by Hilary Bootee, was cut by Andrew Doney, Scout chaplain.

Thanks were expressed to Scout members Sarah Doney, George Drew and Rachel Cottam, all who supplied food for the tea, Gwenda Hanlan, Judy Cooper nd anyone else who helped in any way.

The Patronal service took place at 5pm, conducted by Lay Reader Andrew Doney.

The patronal hymn written for the church millennium in 1981 by Constance Stephens was sung, accompanied by organist for the service, Roger Webster.

The sermon was delivered by Keith Browne from Rilla Mill Retreat Centre, who spoke of St Melor and worship at that time.

Lessons were read by Roy Cooper and Maxine Browne, prayers led by churchwarden Sarah Doney, offertory taken by Gwenda Hanlan and Sarah Doney, and the final blessing by the Rev Tony Stephens.