PHOTOS: Gospel night at Pickin’ in the Park

ELLERBE — The Axe Handlers opened the third installment of Pickin’ in the Park Thursday for a night of gospel music.

Playing through a set of bluegrass gospel tunes, the band turned the stage over to Sonshine Ministries for a few songs, with the Cameronian Boys closing out the show.

Guitarist Luke Vuncannon started the music series in his hometown of Ellerbe in September, starting with bluegrass, followed by a night of classic rock for the second show.

The previous free concerts drew crowds of more than 200. Cooler weather was thought to be the reason for the smaller audience on Oct. 17.

Vuncannon said there may be one more show in November, if it’s warm enough.

The Axe Handlers will be performing again on Saturday for the sixth annual Pickin’ in the Pines fundraiser at Millstone 4-H Camp, sharing the stage with the Po Ramblin Boys.

Proceeds from the event go toward providing scholarships for kids to attend summer camp at Millstone.