CUP FINAL FROLICS FOR CHARITY

But after the match at The Masons there were other events that proved more diverting than even arguments between Welsh and English rugby fans. After watching the Rugby World Cup Final on the pub’s three TVs the locals enjoyed an auction. The dulcet tones of Pete Gardiner, as auctioneer, persuaded and cajoled the clientele into parting with their well-earned cash. When they didn't co-operate he glowered them into submission. The items included a lovely set of Waterford crystal glasses donated by Stuart Crystal and a meal for four at the Tredegar Arms. There was more merriment to come with the draw for the pub’s big Cup Final Raffle, boasting over twenty prizes donated by a range of local businesses from the Book Shop to Wilkinson. Steve Lacey, the landlord of the Tan House in Shirenewton provided an excellent musical accompaniment to all of this excitement. The evening was rounded off by the more gentle, and unusual Saturday night activity, of a cake sale. Altogether the grand sum of £524 was raised for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Michael Layzell, who organised the evening, said ‘It was fantastic. They were a great crowd. I never thought we’d raise half that much.’ Brian Philips, the landlord said, ‘That’s Devauden for you. When we do something we do it well!’