Sharing the love in St Thomas

The Exeter Chiefs Foundation helped support a new community event that took place at St Thomas Church.

The first Love St Thomas Summer Festival included live music, talks, workshops, stalls, refreshments and family-friendly activities all signposted with flags and banners paid for with a Foundation grant.

The Festival was headlined by Revelation Roots, with other musical performances by Poco Drom, Tano Taiko, Mum’s Choir Exeter and Walking Wounded.

There were talks spanning history, science and culture from molecular microbiologist Mark Ramsdale, Cornish language expert Kensa Broadhurst, Tudor and Stuart historian Mark Stoyle and Devon historian Todd Gray.

The church car park host DJ sets and an interactive performance inspired by 1980s game show Blind Date.

Workshops included disco-dancing with Anna Janota, art with Steve McCracken and yoga for both children and adults.

There also were stalls hosted by RAMM, St Thomas Library and Theatre Alibi and refreshments, an international food market and drinks served by Topsham Brewery.

Other activities include face-painting, tai-chi, badge-making and henna-tattooing.

Lousie Bright, from Love St Thomas Summer Festival, said: “The Festival celebrated and showcased all the talented makers, crafters, traders, performers and musicians from the area. It gave the community something to look forward to with many children from the schools in the area taking part.

“Our event allowed families to come out for the day to an affordable event with plenty of free activities and entertainment. The festival promoted community spirit and well-being for all.”