A Charity Fundraising Evening at the Hare and Hounds

Sunday 28^th May 2023

With the help of all the lovely staff at our very own Hare and Hounds pub, the inimitable Malcolm Smith organised and hosted a great charity evening on behalf of Dementia Forward, an organisation very close to his heart, and indeed, the pub and village.

A host overflowing with warmth and fun made it very easy to enjoy the evening. The Stream Bar in the garden, serving delicious cocktails, was manned by two experts who gave their time freely for the cause (and could give Tom Cruise a run for his money), keeping us well oiled. Haider, the chef, stayed on well past clocking-off time to ensure that we all were able to enjoy his delicious food, and beautiful cakes were donated for the raffle to top up the charitable coffers. It was all off to a very good start!

Once we were all settled down at our tables, the quiz began. It had two large, and difficult music sections (only because we were struggling to remember all the very familiar tunes and vocalists!), but many of us were able to sing along! A photographic section of the staff as infants was very entertaining – who would have thought that Darren Dunn was so angelic with shoulder length blond hair?! There was also an informative question section about dementia, which Malcolm sensitively introduced. The scores were not high, but it was much enjoyed.

Sophie Smith, our fabulous local songbird, then took the stage and the evening started to swing. The already warmed up voices of the villagers started to swell, and then the dancing began. Sophie really worked hard, along with one or two people to accompany her, and she was great! Some of the dancing was a sight to behold, but any incriminating evidence is safely hidden away! Jude Willets who was to be our incredible umpire the following day, leaped around the tables with a wooden spoon encouraging those seated to sing into it with a considerable amount of success.

Malcolm proudly announced that he had £700+ in his bucket, and there was more to come. He was very thankful and declared that he was now a dedicated Lothersdalian. The whole event (including the equally well supported coffee, brekkie bap and cake morning at the Village Hall) was a success and enjoyed by all the villagers who took part. One, who lives close to the pub, opened her windows wider as she was going to bed, because she wanted to fill her room with the joyous sound of music and singing!

Penny Brooke