Biggleswade church's Country Fayre replaced by the Great St Andrew’s Tea Garden

With the pandemic causing the cancellation of the 2020 fayre, organisers have instead devised a new way for the community to unwind in a Covid-secure way.

The Great St Andrew’s Tea Garden will take place this Saturday (September 19) in the grounds of the church in Shortmead Street, between 10.30am and 3.30pm, with all proceeds going to Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger.

A church spokesman said: “After careful consideration, it has been decided to replace the country fayre, with a Tea Garden so that the community of Biggleswade can have a well-deserved opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves, whilst still being very safe, during this pandemic.

“We hope that everyone enjoys themselves whilst keeping as safe as possible.

“Proceeds from the event will all go to St John’s Hospice, who provide expert care for life-limiting conditions. They help with everything from pain and symptom management to emotional and practical help and are well known to all, for their excellent care and kindness, during extremely difficult times.”

The approach to the afternoon’s entertainment will be along the central path in front of the church. Watch out for what is now the usual practice of having two-metre lines for any queuing system.

A payment by card will be made at this entrance for your beverages and raffle and then you will be shown to a table for your group, which due to the latest rules cannot exceed 6. At your table you will be asked to complete a ‘track and trace’ form.

Tables will be set at a safe distance apart so that families and friends, in their particular ‘bubbles’, may enjoy tea and cake or afternoon tea, depending on your choice. An order will be taken by people ‘waiting’ on the tables and your request delivered to your table.

There will be ‘roving’ teapots or coffee to keep cups regularly topped up, or cartons of apple or orange juice for children.

It is hoped that there will be some simple and light entertainment with piano, violin and singing and as you arrive or leave, Harris’ amusements will be available to entertain young children.

The spokesman added: “The whole day will be managed with as much care, safety and cleanliness as possible.

“Tables sprayed and cleaned between groups, crockery and cutlery recycled through the industrial dishwasher. Stewards will maintain safe distancing and there will be someone to manage the queue for the toilets, spraying and cleaning surfaces after individual use.”

For those that wish to go into church after refreshments, there will be a one-way system in use with hand sanitiser at the entrance of the building, This is currently used before services.

Catering choices: 1. Drink and Cake Option: Slice of Gateaux and everlasting tea/coffee. Adults £3, Children £2.

2. Afternoon Tea Option: Selection of sandwiches ¾ each *Cream Cheese & Cucumber, *Ham & Tomato, *Tuna & Cucumber; Scone with Jam and Cream or Slice of Gateaux. Adults £5, Children £3 or Family of 4, £12.