Langston House Fundraiser Raises £6,500 for Helen Mary R

We’ve just returned from a wonderful few days at Langston House and Retreat, and we’re still feeling incredibly grateful. Tucked away in the heart of South Devon, this beautifully restored country home and new event space became the backdrop for a very special evening — a fundraising event in support of the Morvargh Sailing Project and our Preserve the Legacy, Protect the Future campaign.

As the chosen charitable cause, we were truly honoured to be welcomed into such a thoughtfully designed space. Langston House seamlessly blends elegance with warmth, and the surrounding gardens, along with the newly completed event space, create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening of connection and support.

Our deepest thanks go to Will and Holly, our gracious hosts and the driving force behind Langston House’s new retreat and event space, whose vision and tireless efforts made the event not only possible but exceptional. It was a true pleasure to spend time in their company and see firsthand the care and intention they bring to Langston House.

The evening itself was a great success; guests were greeted by our very own Pete Barraud, resplendent in a full tuxedo, and invited to enjoy a glass of pink bubbly on arrival, served from a Land Rover and invited to explore the beautiful gardens and take a wander around the house. As people strolled through the gardens and gathered on the lawn in the evening sunshine, it was clear this was going to be a special night.

As the light turned golden, everyone made their way down to the stunning new event space, which complements the grounds beautifully. Open and light, with a sense of peace, it overlooks the lake and countryside.

Matt spoke to guests about Morvargh, our mission, and why this fundraiser is so important to us. What struck us most was the depth of everyone's engagement. Throughout the evening, we were approached by numerous kind and curious people, eager to learn more about what we do and how they could support us. We felt a sense of community and shared purpose.

Guests enjoyed an exquisite meal prepared by Tom Welch and the brilliant team from Wild Garlic, who served a stunning locally sourced menu, showcasing ingredients supplied by Rare & Pasture Charcuterie, The Green Deli Newton Ferrers, Mount Folly Farm Bigbury, Scobbiscombe Farm Kingston, Ben's Farm Shop and Sevenstones Hogget.

Every plate was beautifully prepared, and the flavours celebrated the best of the region — the hogget was rich and flavoursome, and the beef birria melted in the mouth. Stunning!

We were also fortunate to have Moments by Erin with us on the night, who beautifully captured the evening as it naturally unfolded. Erin’s ability to document genuine moments helped reflect the warmth and atmosphere of the event perfectly.

Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended, we raised £6,500, all of which will go directly to our Preserve the Legacy, Protect the Future campaign. This fund is helping us undertake critical work on Helen Mary R, our 57-foot sail training yacht, so she can continue to inspire and challenge young people at sea for years to come.

With sincere thanks to our generous sponsors:

HPi Verification Services Ltd, Yacht Haven Marinas, Mr Builder Co, Greener Devon Renewables, Gala Pools and BK Grain Group

To everyone who donated raffle and auction prizes, gave their time to help set up, and supported behind the scenes — thank you. We know how much work goes into delivering an event like this, and it all came together seamlessly.

A special thanks also goes to the suppliers who provided food and drinks at trade prices, allowing us to raise even more on the night.

Finally, thank you to every single person who attended. We were overwhelmed by how lovely, engaged, and genuinely interested you all were in the work we do through Sail Training. Your support enables us to continue transforming young lives at sea.

From all of us at Morvargh, and on behalf of the young people whose lives you’re helping to change, thank you!

If you missed the event but would like to support the future of Helen Mary R, you can learn more and donate directly through our GoFundMe page:

GoFundMe - HELEN MARY R - Preserve the Legacy, Protect the Future

Together, we can preserve the legacy. Protect the future. And continue to inspire young people through Sail Training.