Another
successful and enjoyable day was had by all at the 26th Arnesby
May Fayre on Bank Holiday Monday, 29 May. In spite of the poor
weather, around 4,000 people, somewhat lower than last year, visited
the village and just over £10,000 was raised
for local organisations and amenities.
Visitors who braved the chilly northerly wind and the occasional
showers enjoyed the usual mix of live entertainment, over 50 stalls
to browse and a selection of eating places. The main 800 space car
park approached capacity at around mid day and the hot drinks, barbeque
and other refreshment outlets were at full stretch from early on.
We were especially lucky that an enormous black cloud went past the
village at lunchtime without spilling a drop.
The
Fayre featured the sixth running of the 5 mile Cross country race
from Arnesby to Shearsby and Bruntingthorpe. A record 110 runners
took part in the two races (adults and juniors) which is now firmly
established in the local running club calendar.
Winners this year
were: Men - Graham Patton (Sphinx AC) in 32 mins 27sec, Ladies -
Sandra Grimes (The Owls) in a new course record 33:22. Christopher
Burke won the boys race also in a new course record time of 14:42
and Imogen Murray won the girls race in a time of 18:18. Full Results»»
Live
musical entertainment was provided by the Wigston Brass Band who
gave two concerts from the village hall, the country, rock and jazz
band The Lizzards performed throughout the day from a stage on the
village green and the string quartet Arcturus gave two concerts in
St Peter’s Church.
Other entertainers included a stilt-walking clown and balloon model maker, a children’s magic act, a display of falconry, and the Bakanalia Border Morris group. Some stocks with a supply of cold water sponges provided a chance for volunteers to cool down. 
Exhibits featured a “Craft Village” organised by Carol Greenwood with local people demonstrating their skills in traditional and country crafts, including beading, spinning & felting, corn dollies and patchwork. There was also a display of Karate skills and a master class for people to get some experience of the sport. Peter Welton, the renowned water colour artist, opened his studio and gallery. Children of Arnesby Church of England School performed a traditional Maypole dance on the village green.  Another scarecrow competition was run for villagers to make and display
a scarecrow on the theme, this year, of Sporting Heroes. Many  scarecrows
were shown around the village to the amusement of visitors and the
winning entry was Eddie the Eagle, perched precariously high on a roof.
The day was rounded off for villager helpers with a ploughman's
supper at the village hall and entertainment on the lorry/stage by
local More photos from Adehl The organising committee would like to thank all the helpers who made the day another success. Many people work really hard before, during and after the day and without this generous donation of time and effort (as well as more material donations) the Fayre could not go ahead, let alone succeed. Jacque Shorrocks, Liza Welton, Mike Brown, Debbie Dunn and Terry Emmony. The Committee would appreciate any feedback from villagers or visitors on any aspect of the event. Please click here to send your comments by email. |
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