Thistleton Music Festival founder receives award from the High Sheriff of Rutland, Geoff Thompson

A villager who organised an inaugural music festival to raise funds for her parish church has been honoured with a High Sheriff Award.

Thistleton Music Festival took place earlier this month, the fruition of more than two years of planning and organisation by Beverley Hancock.

After the final performance of the 10-day event, the High Sheriff of Rutland, Geoff Thompson, thanked everyone who had been involved and presented Beverley with a High Sheriff Award.

"Beverley has made an outstanding contribution to her local community by her hard work and dedication," said Geoff.

"By her actions Beverley has not only brought joy to local people but has helped preserve the heritage of this beautiful church for the enjoyment of generations to come."

After discussing her idea with the Friends of Thistleton Church, Beverley successfully applied for funding from the Scops Arts Trust and set to work, overcoming Covid-enforced delays to deliver the festival this spring.

Hosted by Thistleton Church, the event featured a varied programme including Uppingham Jazz and Soul Combo, harpist Eleanor Turner, choral music, and a talk by rock 'n' roller Vince Eager before culminating with a songs of praise service,

Proceeds from the festival will go towards the ongoing maintenance for the 14th century church which was rebuilt in 1879 and then rescued from closure six years ago.