A night of generosity, community spirit and local flavour awaits at the Wine & Wessex Grazing Platter Evening and Auction of Promises on Saturday 18th October at East Stour Village Hall.
The event, organised by the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society, aims to raise vital funds for the Student Support Fund, which helps young people pursue careers in agriculture and land-based industries.
This exciting new event offers an immersive wine-tasting experience – led by an expert from Wild about Wine – paired with a delectable grazing platter featuring locally sourced treats from across the Wessex region.
Guests can enjoy bold Barber’s cheese, award-winning From Dorset With Love chutneys, Olives Et Al nibbles, and artisan charcuterie from The Real Cure – all included in the £20 ticket price.
Alongside the tasting, attendees will have the chance to bid on a diverse array of promises donated by local businesses and artisans. Highlights include a magical steam engine experience, a week’s stay in a luxury Newquay apartment, and a private wine-tasting at home. For food and drink lovers, there’s also a VIP tour of Hall & Woodhouse Brewery on offer.
The funds raised will support the Student Support Fund, which provides financial assistance for travel, equipment and tuition fees – crucial support for young people embarking on rural careers. As one such beneficiary, 17-year-old Olivia Payne from Frome, said, ‘The grant means I can follow my dream of doing a university degree in Equine Veterinary. I’m so grateful.’
Anthony Wilkinson from the Student Support Fund says, ‘Young people wanting to go into rural careers often struggle to finance travel to college – for many it’s more than 50 miles – or to afford essential equipment. The Student Support Fund can make a huge difference to their ability to succeed.’
Tickets for the evening are £20, which includes the wine-tasting and a grazing platter. Booking is essential to ensure your place for an unforgettable evening of local food, drink and genuine community support.
Tickets are available at gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk
