28th November 2006

Bell Inn present over £6,000 to charity

A presentation evening at the Bell Inn, Adderbury saw local charities receive over £6,000, raised through the hard work and generosity of the Oxfordshire villagers.

Sheena Powell and Linda Leslie, from the Adderbury Party in the Park musicians, handed over a cheque for £500 to the Pre-School at Christopher Rawlings and £1,500 to Katherine House Hospice. And Bell licensees John and Trisha Bellinger handed a cheque for £4,447.54 to Katherine House following John’s epic cycle ride to every Hook Norton pub in Oxfordshire.

The third Party in the Park held on 15 July was a roaring success for the village of Adderbury. Over 2,000 people attended during the course of the day, music was provided by local bands who played late into the night. Party in the Park organiser Davey McCormack said: "It is remarkable that a small Oxfordshire village such as Adderbury could raise the talent to produce nine bands to provide the soundscape for this fabulous party.

"Bouncy castles, a pig roast, ice cream, deli vendors and a fine sunny day, all made their contribution to this wonderful event - which with any luck, will become an annual date for the Adderbury calendar. Thanks to all volunteers, the bands who played for free and the contributions from local business; in particular Messer's Walker and Smiths of Bloxham".

The Great Hooky Bike Ride Challenge took place over the weekend of 22 September, covering 150 miles and 30 pubs. When making the presentation, John thanked everyone who made donations, including a number of local businesses, and his support team who followed in a van provided by the Hook Norton Brewery, with spares and supplies and a large bucket to rattle at each pub.

"The Hook Norton pubs I visited were very generous, with more than half the money raised being collected en route. It was hard work but the thought of breaking my target of £1,500 kept me going," said John Bellinger. Musicians from Party in the Park provided musical entertainment for the presentation evening and customers were treated to a buffet and a raffle which raised further funds for the hospice.