Family day out in Middleton at traditional village fête

It will be the second year that the event is reunited with its once regular display of classic cars, featuring marques from the 1920s to the 1970s.

Felpham resident Richard Armstead, long-time organiser of classic vehicle events in and around the area, said he expected about 100 cars, motor cycles and military vehicles to be on parade at Shrubb’s Field, in Elmer Road.

Visitors will be able to see motoring history including some vehicles which were supplied decades ago by local garages whose names have long since disappeared.

He added: “That is provided, of course, that we do not have a repeat of last year’s disastrous weather, when one of the summer’s wettest and windiest days clashed with our event.

“Those stalls which had been erected the night before were spectacularly swept away by 9am on the day.”

The dog show is another highlight, always with a full entry of wagging tails eager to compete.

So popular is this attraction, that it begins immediately the fête opens at 12.30pm.

The dog show will be followed by other arena events, including a Living History display, falconry and belly dancers.

Meanwhile, throughout the afternoon, visitors can indulge in an array of entertainments ranging from a bouncy castle and bouncy slide, to craft stalls in the village hall, tombola, boot stalls, zorb balls, giant raffle and all the traditional village fête delights.

To keep everyone refreshed, there will be afternoon teas in the Scouts’ hall, a barbecue, beer tent and plenty of ice cream.

The fête starts at 12.30pm on Shrubb’s Field, Elmer Road, Middleton. This year’s beneficiary is Chestnut Tree House, the hospice which provides specialist care for life-limited children in Sussex and south east Hampshire.

For general enquiries about the fête or to book a stall, ring 01243 583298 or 01243 584254. To enter a classic vehicle, contact Richard Armstead on 07949 745 442 or email [email protected] for more information. Classic vehicle owners wishing to join in the fun should arrive no later than 12pm.