The Ship in Kingsbridge was the venue for a wine tasting evening earlier this month.

The event, which was organised by the Kingsbridge RFC Special Events Committee, took place on February 1 and raised a whopping £500.

The money will be used to pay for the refurbishment of the showers in the changing rooms at High House.

A delicious five-course dinner was prepared by "master chef" Chris Bowles, who is the vice chairman of the Western Counties (West) club.

It consisted of cream of cauliflower soup, asparagus wrapped in ham with a tomato vinaigrette, roast loin of lamb, roasted new potatoes with garlic, red wine and rosemary gravy, fruit crumble and finally a selection of tasty local cheeses.

Gordon Burwell, from off-license chain Threshers, supplied a selection of interesting wines to compliment the food and a great time was enjoyed by all.

Elizabeth Bewley-Jones, chairman of the Special Events Committee, was delighted with how the evening panned out.

She said: "Everyone appeared to enjoy a convivial evening. Compliments went to the chef and people enjoyed the new venue.

"The room gave an atmosphere of friendship and those attending said it was the best venue yet.

"Chris enjoyed working in a kitchen where he could swing a cat if necessary."

Elizabeth and the rest of the committee were congratulated by KRFC president Jonathan Robinson, while the club's chief executive, Brian Lowe, said he was pleased to see how much support the event received.

The committee is also planning a "Race Night", which will be held at High House on Friday 27 June.

The evening will comprise of a meal and eight races. Sponsoring a race will cost £50, while buying a horse will set you back a mere £10. Tickets are priced at £10.

For more information about the Special Events Committee, phone Elizabeth on 01548 857130 or visit www.kingsbridgerugby.co.uk/specialevents.htm.