It was special in two ways; it raised funds for the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, and had two very special guests – Taffy Thomas MBE and Mossy Christian. Taffy is a storytelling legend and the first storytelling laureate, whilst Mossy is an outstanding, award-winning musician.

The evening raised over £700 for the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, plus everyone had a great time.

Martin Horler of the Mendip Storytellers started the evening with a spooky local story, Colonel Hipsley’s drummer boy, set at Emborough lake. Following Martin, Taffy and Mossy did their first excellent set of the evening, combining Taffy’s legendary storytelling with Mossy’s fabulous musicianship.

The interval became an extended tea and cake break, with cake sales raising over £130.

Many thanks to Lynda’s Loaf and the Mendip Pantry for donating cakes, and also thanks to the people who donated their home made cakes – you know who you are! Thanks too, to the tea and cake crew for their hard work above and beyond the call of duty.

Janet North of the Mendip Storytellers, started the second half of the show weaving a Ukrainian tale of the Tsar and the Angel. Taffy and Mossy then returned and rounded the evening off in fine style with stories, riddles and music.

The evening was MC’d by Drift Snowbarger of the Mendip Storytellers. Other people need to be mentioned in dispatches including – Ston Easton Village Hall Committee for waiving the hire charge – thank you!

Thanks also to Jan for making the blue and yellow themed bunting, Lisa for selling the prize draw tickets and plants, Ston Easton Parish magazine for the free advert and thanks to the audience for being so generous. Mendip Story Circle meet on the second Wednesday of the month in Ston Easton Village Hall. 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Come along and experience the tradition of storytelling!