ABERDEEN NEWS — The annual 'Dankfees' of the Aberdeen Dutch Reformed Church, which is so eagerly anticipated by local Aberdonians as well as those from surrounding towns, took place on Saturday, 7 July.

For those who arrived early, there was hot tea and coffee with roosterkoek for breakfast, which was much appreciated on the chilly morning.

The day soon warmed up, and it was a wonderful occasion, with people from all sections of the community arriving to support the function and socialise together.

This festival has become renowned over the years for the large amount and variety of affordable, quality meat that is available. This year was no exception.

The tables groaned under the mutton, lamb, beef and even ostrich meat and biltong.

Other tables were laden with a variety of cakes and biscuits, frozen meals, vegetables, curry and rice, pancakes, the ever-popular bazaar puddings, and treats for the children. As always, the chops and boerewors that had been freshly braaied outside the hall drew a big crowd, with the salads available to accompany the meat.

The tables set out as an indoor tea garden were soon full, with the café doing brisk business with hot drinks and cake. The pancake cooks also were kept very busy!

Despite the drought and weak economy, the church raised more money than expected, with an increase of about 20% compared to last year. All the goods sold had been donated, and the church is extremely grateful to all the donors, workers and supporters who contributed to the success of the day.

"Our greatest thank you goes to our Heavenly Father for the wonderful day, with all the blessings and the opportunity to socialise together," said Ds Abe Beyers.

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