Jolly farmers and other people in any line of work are invited to a big charity night at a refurbished country pub.
Pitchforks though should be left at home for the fundraiser which includes The Liverpool Echoes band, a DJ, an auction, a Thai buffet and dancing by Hurst Morris People.
Carlsberg chose The Jolly Farmer at Hurst, for the event on Thursday August 25 for Macmillan Cancer Research Trust because of the pub’s big new makeover.
The auction includes holidays to Spain and Tenerife, a Liverpool football shirt signed by the team and a Jolly Farmer dinner.
Hurst Morris People squire (leader) Karen Ricketts said: “We’ve danced at the Jolly Farmer many times. We’re delighted to support such a great charity on this occasion.”
On Sunday, just two weeks after reopening, the pub was packed for lunch.
Pub manager Edward Lawrence, 23, of Reading, who went to Chiltern Edge School at Sonning Common, has seven years’ experience organising catering, weddings and parties.
“We’re pleased to have had great comments about the refurbishment. People have said it was just what the pub needed. They told us they liked the warm welcome, friendly staff, good food and good service,” he said.
“We’re pleased to help charities, we want to be a community pub. We support the air ambulance but want to do more for them.
“On the walls we have old photos of the pub, built in 1860, and farming. We’d like to have farm equipment, tools and old wheels on display.” Edward also has engineering experience – at MAN Truck and Bus, Whitley.
The improvements are ongoing. The back garden is already transformed with covered dining areas including a pergola, a large wooden gazebo and booths. It’s bright and colourful with many flowers. There will be an outdoor bar.
Inside the pub there’s a fresh new look in whites and blues and more plants. There will be a cocktail bar and a barrister style coffee machine. The beers include Timothy Taylor and Tribute plus a Rebellion monthly guest special. Food is Thai and English.
Tickets for the fundraiser cost £20, include a Thai food buffet and can be booked by phoning 0118 934 1881 or by calling in to the pub. The event is 5pm to late evening with the music finishing at 11.30pm.
The charity night will be a chance to talk to Hurst Morris People about their taster sessions for everyone to have a go at morris dancing and music at Hurst Village Hall on September 22 and 29 at 8pm. Let the side know if you’d like to go. Details are at Facebook @hurstmorris and www.hump.org.uk
