Comedian Al Murray visits Great Torrington Cavaliers’ latest Bonfire

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STAND-UP comedian Al Murray raised a glass to members of a Torrington fundraising charity group recently.

The comic visited Great Torrington Cavaliers’ latest bonfire build on the Commons during the latter part of last year.

The comic, who is best known for his pub landlord character, was performing at the Plough Arts Centre in the town.

Mr Murray posed for pictures with members of the Great Torrington Cavaliers at their replica of Trumpton village.

Every few years the charity group creates a giant replica of a popular landmark or iconic build.

This time the group decided to build a replica of Trumpton village from the 1967 children’s television series.

Director of the Plough Arts Centre, Richard Wolfenden-Brown, had arranged for Mr Murray to visit the Trumpton village.

Nick Hallam, secretary of the Great Torrington Cavaliers, said it was a “great surprise”.

He said: “We took the opportunity and asked him to officially open the Trumpton pub, which he was pleased to do. We have subsequently renamed it The Murray Arms.

“He was amazed that we spend two years building something only to then burn it down.

“I am sure if he is around he would love to have a quick drink in The Murray Arms before it’s gone.”

The Trumpton Village build is on track to be burned during their big bonfire event in August.

Mr Hallam said: “We have been slowed down a bit by the weather but have managed to complete most of the buildings that had a skeleton structure.

“We will now concentrate on expanding the village to include the famous Trumpton fire station and a few shops.

“We have had a lot of materials donated from businesses all over North Devon.

“However, we have had to buy in some of the construction timber for safety reasons. Tamar Trading have been very good to us on that.”

Mr Hallam said every themed bonfire was decided on democratically by members of the Cavaliers.

He said: “We usually get some crazy ideas put forward, some of which are impossible to build. There is still a lot of work to do but everything is on track. We strive to put on a really good event.”

Great Torrington Cavaliers will burn Trumpton during their big bonfire event on August, 29.

MONEY raised from the Cavaliers’ big bonfire will be donated to several charities.

Mr Hallam said: “Half of profits go to two beneficiaries with the remaining 50% going to people who apply to the fund.

“We helped more than 100 local charities and good causes in 2010, some of which are not eligible for funding from any other source. We are very proud to be able to do that.”

Steve Young, Chairman of the Great Torrington Cavaliers, said: “The original motto of the Cavaliers was to put on events the like of which Torrington has never seen before.

“We are planning to maintain that tradition with another great show this summer."

“The construction of the Trumpton bonfire is a testament to the Cavaliers’ commitment to raising money for charities and good cause.

“We thank all the local businesses who support us throughout these projects.”

Mayor of Torrington Richard Rumbold said he was amazed at how much the Cavaliers helped the community.

He said: “Trumpton village is really taking shape on the commons. It will show off all their building skills as well as raise thousands of pounds for our local charities. I feel very humble to be associated with the Cavaliers.”