A special evening of shared music and food took place at Flynne’s Barn on Saturday the 2nd of July 2022.
Over the course of the afternoon and in the preceding days visitors gradually arrived at Thorneythwaite, settling into their accommodation and helping with preparations. Attendees of all ages had travelled from across the UK and even further afield, alongside local friends who joined for the Saturday evening.
Barnfest2 opened with Chef David Jackson serving up a delicious meal. The spread included chili, veggie curry and a range of sides, followed by classic cake bites for dessert. Can’t thank you enough David!
Music started in the farmyard with Derry, Aoise and Gary playing traditional Irish tunes. The collaboration of singing, tin whistle, guitar and bodhran was ideal for a fortunately dry evening in Borrowdale. Barnfest2 soon moved inside Flynne’s Barn as Gary Lilburn treated us to some heartfelt folk songs. Big thanks to Pete and Ang for providing and setting up their sound system! Jem and Harry were up next with a few acoustic versions of some of their newly formed band’s material.
Anne Darlington, Chair of trustees, then gave a welcoming speech highlighting developments at Flynne’s Barn this year, with successful residentials and the growth of the counselling service. She also welcomed local legend Billy Bland as the newest patron of the charity. Billy has been amazing behind the scenes.
David Cazalet followed with some of his more recent songs, layering captivating guitar phrases with his delay pedal. Burnt Horse then took to the stage, weaving together intricate vocal harmonies over instrumentals of guitar, bass and fiddle. The audience were treated to their version of Kate Bush’s trending Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God). Aoise Haran’s solo slot was next, a performance of her own beautiful music, old and new. Thank you Aoise for your continual musical contributions and help throughout the week (and good luck in Canada)! Music in the Barn finished as other musicians rejoined Aoise for some old favorites. Fittingly, Barnfest2 moved into the warmth of the tipi, where the evening songs around the fire – hopefully the night wasn’t ruined as the last up resorted to Green Day and Oasis!
The next morning there was a communal effort to pack away and clean up. Thanks so much everyone, the Barn is now ready for the next charity visitors this week.
Over the course of the weekend we raised £1348! All contributions are much appreciated. The money will go towards continuing this summer of residentials at Flynne’s Barn, with the next group arriving on Saturday 9th July. As Flynne’s Barn grows with your help, so will our counselling project, a key service for young people affected by cancer; it is difficult for young people to access this kind of tailored support as mental health services are so overstretched. Flynne’s Barn currently has three counsellors delivering online and telephone counselling and aims to continue generating referrals and developing our supportive network.
A huge thank you to all who came and entered into the spirit of the occasion – for all the stunning musical contributions, delicious food, great photos, kind donations and for setting up and clearing away. Mostly thanks to all those who travelled a long way to be here and for the great company. We look forward to more events and music here at Flynne’s Barn.
