Little Common Village Fayre

Relaxed old-fashioned fun in the mellow warmth of a summer evening - that was Little Common Village Fayre.

The event was opened by Town Mayor Councillor Bridget George as many of those working in Little Common businesses ended their work day and eased into enjoyment mode, taking advantage of the games, stalls and side shows that make up this traditional village event.

Organised by the Little Common Business Association, with Stuart Earl at its helm, the fair took place in the gardens and car park of the Wheatsheaf restaurant, and on this occasion the weather could hardly have been more lovely.

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Stuart commented: "The whole idea is to say thank you to the people of Little Common for their support all through the year. We run two events in the village - there is this, and the Christmas family carol service.

The income from this far goes to the Association in the first place and we spend at least 60 percent of all we take on the promotion of Little Common as a shopping area, and supporting the businesses promotionally, and marketing the village. The remaining money we put back into paying for Christmas lights, the flowers and general upkeep, so that Little Common is looking as good as it possibly can.

"The membership of the Association is very solid - we have got perhaps 60 members and at any one time when we put on an event at least 20 of those will always be available to help - others are working, so obviously they can't join in.

"The support is first class.

"This year the bunting has gone up early, the promotional side of it has gone better and we have been extremely lucky with the weather. Last year we ran it earlier in the year and it was a great shame that the weather spoiled it, and it was cold and wet, so attendances were down. This year we are really happy and it is a lot better. People can walk out of work and just stroll around.

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"The atmosphere is created by the shop-keepers and helpers, and of course the man with the P.A who gets everyone to join in.

"This is a typical community event where everybody who enjoys village life and wants to be part of it can get involved, whether they are working on a stall or bringing things to sell. Everybody who is here wants to be here - they want to be part of the community."

The fayre included plate-smashing, a human fruit machine, penalty shootout, bookstall, cakes, raffle, games, competition, raffle, a carousel, and a plant stall set up by Little Common Horticultural Society.

Stuart paid tribute to the work put into the event by Michael and Jean Jeanes and said: "Without them this would not happen. Behind the scenes it's all about the energy they put into it. They have no business in the village but they are community people who love being involved. They are brilliant - absolutely brilliant."