What a successful day it was.  Everyone had pulled out all the stops to make the fair worthy of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, and a great deal of work went into   emphasising themes such as decorating the stalls and putting up bunting.  It was good to see community spirit in action. (apart from the gratifying amount of money that was raised for much needed church funds – approx. £3,300.)

 We were very fortunate with the weather – could have been warmer (much warmer), but thank goodness no rain.  Even the heavy dew on the grass dried out which was a relief for those stall-holders who improvidently came wearing sandals.

 Planning of these fairs – especially the larger summer ones – starts months before, booking the hall and entertainers, growing plants, discussing menus, calculating food and drink quantities, printing posters, printing and delivering notices to every house in the parish, stocking up freezers with cakes and most important cajoling people  to have a stall or run a side-show.  All this activity would have been wasted if the field had been left to nature, so Herculean efforts were made scything and mowing to get it in such fine condition.

 On the day of course, starting at the crack of dawn, dozens of tables and chairs had to be carried out before the stallholders arrived.

What worked very well this year was that we were all in the one field which made for a buzz in the air and a feeling of get togetherness.  Many visitors stayed for the duration of the fair, having a sit-down in the hall with excellent food, or resting with a Pimms and listening to the band.   The All Saints Band was very much appreciated, and I hope that we shall hear them again.  Juggling John was a great hit with the children and also with the adults.  Our thanks to the St. John Ambulance for their attendance.   It’s reassuring to know that there is someone trained that we can call on if need be.  

The fair is more than just another money raiser for the church.  It’s an opportunity for people to get to know each other, make friends and enjoy the feeling of working together for a common purpose.  I recommend volunteering to help at the next one if you are new to the area, or have been here some time but still feel wallflowerish.  We more than welcome new blood. So remember, when the Christmas Fair is announced, come forward.                                                                         

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