Barbecue, beer and dog blessings at TheCountryside Festival

The Countryside Festival will be held at St George’s Church on Saturday, April 27 from 11am and Sunday, April 28 from noon and features an exhibition depicting farming, wildlife and countryside activities.

Stationary engines, vintage tractors, and farm implements will also be on display in the field and why not bring a creation for the scarecrow competition before 3pm on Sunday.

Bring your pooch to the family dog show, join in the terrier racing or get your pet blessed in a special service Sunday afternoon.

Barbecue, beer and refreshments will be available as well as entertainments including country dancing by Jolesfield School, Morris dancing by Black Dragon, tractor rides, farm walks, auction of promises, local produce, plants, bric-a-brac and craft stalls and more.

‘A Celebration of the Sussex Countryside’ music in the church at 5.30pm on Sunday is the finale for the weekend. Entry free with festival programme.

There will be a preview evening with a glass of wine and canapés on Friday, April 26 at 6.30pm with talk ‘The Life of a Country Vet’ by Francis Hunter MRCVS 7.15pm at the church. Tickets £10 at the door or by calling David Tidey on 01403 864 762.

Festival entry £2 for adults and children free.

Visit www.westgrinstead.org