The keg of beer donated by Bill Russell of the Black Friars Brewery in Yarmouth was raffled at the Caister-on-Sea Carnival on Sunday, June 29, and raised £80 for Friends of GOVI funds.

The beer was promised to Steve Pullinger upon his completing the London Marathon, but unfortunately he never ran because of an injury. Bill still donated the beer as Steve had offered it to the Friends of GOVI to raffle for funds.

Normal Balls (left) receives his prize from Phil Feller

It was a struggle to sell tickets even though the rain held off. The day started fine and dry with just a light breeze so there was hope for the carnival which for several years has been blighted by heavy rains. But even as preparations began the wind picked up and the clouds were forming into black towers in the sky.

At the Friends of GOVI stand the information boards were set up, information and photographs anchored on but still more ties were required as the wind increased. The winning ticket was drawn by the Mayor of Great Yarmouth and a couple days later Norman Balls called to collect his prize. A big thank-you to Bill Russell and Steve Pullinger.

Friday July 4 I was asked if I would attend the studios of Radio Norfolk, Norwich where I was invited to talk about the setting up of the Friends of GOVI and the school. An hour soon passed with the usual requests been played, weather update but, all in all,  time worth giving. As I left the studio I was asked if I would return soon to talk about car boot sales held on behalf of the Friends of GOVI. Upon returning home in the evening Joan said she had already received one pledge of money from a pensioner and an offer of car boot items.