Glorious sunshine and live music drew record crowds to the Vernon Square Conservation Society’s Annual Summer Garden Party, with visitors queuing at the gate well before the event’s 14:00 start.
Guests gave generously to raise impressive funds for the upkeep of the historic Vernon Square Gardens. Serenaded for over 3 hours by local bands and singers, partygoers enjoyed home-baked quiches and cakes, along with Pimms, Prosecco, chilled wines, soft drinks, tea and coffee.
This year’s event featured a carefully selected second-hand bookstall and a giant plant stall, both of which contributed to vital fundraising efforts. Opening the afternoon, the Vectis Brass Band struck up the first of four live music sessions. The Rug Band performed two lively sets to keep spirits high, while Ryde School’s Prosim Trio made their debut with an upbeat mix of saxophone, keyboard and vocals.
All musicians gave their time free of charge to help the Society maintain Vernon Square Gardens for the benefit of local residents and visitors.
A highlight of the afternoon was the eagerly anticipated raffle draw, with prizes including vouchers from RT Grill Restaurant, Mia Fashions, Sugar and Spice Lingerie and Swimwear, Commodore Cinema, as well as local produce from The Vegetable Cart and Pickle & Dill, Isle of Wight Mermaid Gins and Rum, and a hair makeover at Twenty One Salon. Prizes were kindly donated by local businesses and residents.
The entire afternoon was organised and hosted by the Vernon Square Conservation Society’s dedicated volunteers, who work throughout the year to care for the gardens.
New members are always welcome. Further details can be found at www.vernonsquare.org.
it was a great day.