Leg warmers, shoulder pads and a splash of neon made up the attire of the audience who helped raise £2,040 for charity at an 80s themed murder mystery event at Englefield House.
Organisers of the event, in aid of Save the Children Kennet Branch on September 29th, said the Long Gallery provided an atmospheric setting for the finale of 80s rock band Hot Pink Pillow's tour, even if a murder did cause a stir…
The murder mystery play was performed by amateur dramatics group the Boundary Players while the audience enjoyed a three-course meal. It was one of many fundraisers taking place to mark the branch’s 50th anniversary this year and the charity’s 100th anniversary next year and contributed to the impressive £15,000 raised by the branch throughout 2018.
Clare Downey, branch chair, said: “It was a lively, well-attended evening with most people in 80s fancy dress.
“We are very grateful for the Benyon family’s hospitality. The Long Gallery is a beautiful room and the performers were able to use the Governor’s Room and make their appearances from there. We are particularly grateful to Alan, the house caretaker, for going above and beyond and helping us on the evening so much.”
Clare added: “We hold various fundraisers throughout the year from jumble sales to murder mystery evenings which are all important in helping us raise much-needed funds.”