Early in January 2024, some of the parish councillors along with some local volunteers brought a proposal to the parish council to restart the tradition of the Sandymoor Summer Fair. This was a popular annual event that has been hosted by various local groups, supported by the parish council, over the years and last organised in 2019. The parish council agreed to support this event again and the Sandymoor Fair Committee was formed. Over the next 6 months, the small group of volunteers have worked tirelessly to plan, co-ordinate and book everything needed for a successful day.
The first Sandymoor Summer Fair for five years was held on Saturday 6th July from 12 noon until 6pm on the village green. Unfortunately, the weather started as a typical British summer, with some rain until early afternoon meaning some planned contributors withdrew at the last minute but this didn't put too much of a damper on the event. There was a wide range of stalls providing a fantastic variety of quality, handmade products from gorgeous smelling candles & wax melts to mouthwatering cakes and treats as well as some delicious food and drink selections on offer. Silcocks Fun Fair provided some thrilling rides and attractions and some wonderful local performers showcasing their talent on the stage too. There was even a dog show featuring the best fancy dress competition and last but not least, adding a touch of nostalgia to the fair, there were some stunning classic cars on display.
The feedback from those that attended the fair has been very positive with many commenting on the atmosphere and the community feel the event brought. It was lovely to see so many of the Sandymoor residents coming together to enjoy a fun day out at a neighbourhood event with local independent businesses and entertainment from local performers bringing a sense of community spirit to the day.
The great day wouldn't have been possible without the amazing efforts and determination from the organisers and volunteers that worked so hard behind the scenes before the event, during the day and clearing up afterwards to make this such a success. Thank you.
We hope to make this an annual event once more so if anyone else would like to get involved in the planning of a future fair then please contact Arthur, the clerk of the parish council or come along to one of our monthly parish council meetings. Hopefully, with more people involved, we can make it bigger and better next year....and maybe we can even try to book some proper summer weather too!