We are pleased to report that the concert ‘For the Fallen’ at Lamerton Church last Friday was a great success. The event was very well attended in spite of some rather blustery weather.

The concert was introduced by Robin Chambers of Devon SSAFA, who gave an outline of the good work and history of the organisation.

The choir performed a programme of works by composers such as Fauré, Mozart, Ireland and Howells. The choir also performed an arrangement of ‘Abide with Me’ by John Cornish. The congregation joined the choir in singing the hymns ‘Jerusalem’ and ‘Dear Lord and Father of Mankind’. Stille Nacht was also sung by the choir to recall the Christmas Truce of 1914.

In addition to the musical programme, there were several poetry readings, in particular the poem ‘Poppies Grow in Solace’ by choir member Chris Parsons (read by the author) was very well received.

In accordance with the grant provided by The Last Post project, the Last Post was played on the organ, followed by Nimrod by Edward Elgar to close the concert.

Displays were provided by SSAFA and Devon Heritage Centre and each attendee was also given a souvenir replica of the St. John’s Gospel Service Booklet, which was issued to troops at the front during the First World War.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the evening, especially Lamerton PCC, the cake and tea ladies, SSAFA, Devon Heritage Centre, Devon Remembers and the Tavistock and Lamerton branches of the Royal British Legion for providing standard bearers. We also wish to thank Andrew Wilson of Kelly College, who stepped into the breach when our usual organist fell foul of the flu.

The concert raised a total of £552.19 which is a great outcome. We hope to repeat our fundraising efforts in 2015, in the meantime the Callngton Singers are proud to have been able to support SSAFA.