I was very disappointed to see no mention in the paper of the recent charity variety show organised by my niece, Sophie Knowles.

She put so much effort into it and raised a staggering �1,400 for Exeter Hospiscare in memory of her nan, Ann Meadows, a lovely woman who always was there to help anyone who needed it.

Sophie gathered her family around and they helped out willingly, especially her Aunty Sara ,whose marriage is just around the corner.

It would have been nice to be able to thank the people who gave so many hours of valuable time:

Paul Bowsher Grief, the landlord of The Rolle Arms, East Budleigh, who was our excellent sound man, leaving his pregnant wife to run their pub for two nights (and it was heaving when I popped in to pick up something).

The Rose family, Rose Stage Lighting, three generations of men who fantastically did the lighting. They spent two nights, too, and made the show so professional.

Then there is Steve Hall, of The Card Shop Too, who sold the tickets. Professional Magicians Gavin James, from Exeter, and Grant Maidment, from Bath, who were amazing, doing close up magic with the audience during the interval and Gavin performing on stage.

The acts were simply fantastic. Some of them sang for the very first time, especially Paige, who was so brave and did it for her brother who is battling a rare form of cancer.

We had Tom Andrews singing for the last time before he becomes professional and he brought the house down. Jane and Derek Narramore, Lindy Hop Dancers, had the whole audience up and dancing with the helpers dancing in the aisles - a fantastic sight to see.

We also would have liked the opportunity to thank the generous businesses which donated the wonderful prizes for our raffle.

And, lastly, the hospice itself, whose staff were very supportive with the time, advice and help.

Well done, Sophie. What an amazing thing you organised at the age of 14. Be proud of yourself, darling.

Aunty Kim

(via email).

EDITOR’S NOTE. Congratulations to Sophie. See page 22 for a picture and report.