WW2 Tipton St John and Venn Ottery

Tipton during WW2
I have recently been researching newspaper articles about life in Tipton during WW 2 and found that the village was alive with fundraising events to raise funds to support the war effort.
There were regular dances, concerts, and whist drives, many held in the Church Institute or school in connection with the Home Guard, Red Cross "Penny a week" , "Salute the Soldier", "Wings for Victory" among other funds.
'Salute the Soldier' week was a fund raising scheme to encourage civilians to save their money in government accounts. The scheme was themed around raising funds at local level.The OSM and District Savings Association,( president Sir John Kennaway),ran competions to see which groups in the area had raised the most money.
"Miss Scorse, teacher ,was presented with a certificate of honour repesenting Tipton St John school , to commerate their wonderful achievements raising £5 19s 11d per member during the four weeks of the competion, obtaining 1st place! The school children had also put on concerts with Miss Scorse on the piano and Miss West and head Miss Richardson supervising. The schools saving group during "Salute the Soldier" week raised £ 2,682 8s, that was 5 times more than its target and the sum exceeded the total raised for "Wings" week by £ 191."
A "Victory Garden" Show was staged by the WI for the Red Cross Agricultural fund. With a well-supported vegetable, flower, fruit and cakes competion and childrens sports. Mr George Baker of Coombe (nurseryman) put up a fine display of non-competitive roses, dahlias and scabious. All exhibits in the show were sold for the funds.
In aid of the Merchant Navy week a fete was held, there was an exhibition of country dancing by school children and sports and teas. Apparently the tug of war caused much amusment and the outstanding event was the baby show with 27 entries!
The Tipton st John Home Guard were entertained by 'A Nightlights Concert party', a performance of mirth and melody! Supper was provided by the lady members - Gill, Askew, Bater, Lane, Dart and Rutherford. The hall was reported to be packed and that an enjoyable evening was had by all. Funds raised went towards supporting the local Home Guard.
These are just a few of the many fundraising events that took place in the village during the war. Reading about the enthusiasm and generosity of Tipton folk during these demanding times was heart-warming.
The evacuees staying in the village were also welcomed and given parties at Christmas. Eve Smith was evacuated to live with her uncle Sidney Smith, who was the Stationmaster and lived at 3 Coombe Lea. She remembers Miss Richardson was her schoolteacher -"a really beautiful and excellent teacher." And having warm milk from the cows at Skinners Farm.
Tipton celebrated VE with a sports day, this was held at Metcombe by Mr Manley, for the children of Tipton. The field was said to have been gaily decorated with flags, flowers and bunting. There were many different races and activities with money prizes! Lemonade, Cyder and cake were served during the events. There was community singing to the accompaniment of Miss J Scorse on the accordion ( Miss Scorse was obviously very musically talented ) and finally to the delight of all, a huge bonfire and fireworks. Consolation prizes of 6 d were given to every child who won nothing at the sports. Isn't that lovely!