Arundel fundraiser comes as music to charity’s ears

Claire and Simon Gray, from Brooklands Barn, Arundel held a private gathering in aid of Diabetes UK, raising a spectacular £1,391.44 in just a single evening.

The event pooled together the talents of local musicians who all performed during the night.

The entertainment was arranged by Sharon Blaikie – who this year helped stage the Arundel by Candlelight entertainment and that of the Arundel Festival.

It was all part of the Acoustic Sussex Barn Series, which sees private barns in the county being transformed into intimate music sessions.

Claire Gray said: “I had previously been to a couple of these music events at Peppering Farm, Burpham and Fodgens Barn, Bury, and thought how wonderful it would be to gather friends to our barn in Arundel.

“Despite being a cold, damp night, our guests were warmed with mulled wine and hot chilli.”

Guests were treated  to a variety of young singers including The Three of Hearts, choristers from Arundel Cathedral led by Elizabeth Stratford, The Sirens, featuring special guests Jonny Wigg on the fiddle, Nigel Hardy on double bass, Kieran Moore on guitar and Nic Saunders on the piano.

Claire added: “The variety of music was truly stunning, our favourite being a guitar duo, Tom and Ash. I was thrilled to be able to support Diabetes UK for this party as I have seen the struggle my friend’s six-year-old daughter has endured since being diagnosed last year with Diabetes Type 1.”

Claire wished to thank Sainsbury’s Littlehampton, Pallant of Arundel, Sparks Yard, Zimmer Stewart Gallery, Lavender House & Gardens and South Down Event catering for offering their support for the evening.