Hennock's 'legendary' barn dance returns as school fundraising enters new phase
Families are being invited back to Beechleigh Farm for Hennock's annual barn dance as the school PTFA begins rebuilding its fundraising pot
Hennock's ‘legendary’ barn dance is returning next month, with organisers hoping to raise money for the village primary school after its latest fundraising drive helped deliver a new outdoor space.
The event will be held at Beechleigh Farm, near Bovey Tracey, from 6pm on Saturday, October 3.
Money raised will go to Hennock Primary School's Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA), which has put much of its fundraising money into the recently completed playground and garden project.
The new outdoor area was officially opened last week after a community fundraising effort involving parents, local businesses and organisations.
Speaking at the opening, PTFA chair and treasurer John Harvey said the project had been driven by the need to give the rural school a stronger future.
“For rural schools to survive and thrive, we need to attract pupils,” he said.
The finished space includes new play and outdoor learning areas, planting, sensory features, musical elements, sand play areas, timber structures, a bridge and a bespoke children's mosaic.
With that project now complete, organisers say funds need to be built up again so the PTFA can continue supporting trips, activities and other experiences for pupils.
The barn dance will feature ceilidh band Spinach for Norman, with caller Pam leading dancers through the steps.
Food will include a barbecue with local meat and vegetarian options, while a bar, children's games and a grand prize draw will also be available.
The event has raised around £15,000 over previous years and has become an annual fundraiser for the school.
Hennock Primary has around 40 pupils and shares a headteacher with nearby Widecombe-in-the-Moor Primary School.
Parents and children were involved in designing elements of the new outdoor space, including suggesting features and animals for its mosaic.
The project has also provided quieter areas where children can sit and read, alongside spaces for active play and outdoor learning.
Advance tickets are recommended, with previous barn dances having sold out.
The event takes place at Beechleigh Farm, Hennock, near Bovey Tracey, from 6pm on Saturday, October 3.
Tickets and further information are available through the PTFA's events website.