West Chiltington School in full swing for fair with vintage flair

Max Blackburn and Ellie Simmonds, were chauffeured through the grounds to the opening ceremony in a 1948 HRG of which only 241 were ever made.

The crown bearers were two of the youngest members of the school, Frankie Doe 5 and Emma Persson 4 from Reception class.

All the classes, parents and visitors cheered as Headteacher Mr Rose crowned Max May King and Ellie, May Queen before the traditional May pole and country dancing began.

Visitors were treated to a flypast by a Harvard vintage plane courtesy of a parent, a sparkling display of vehicles including a brand new Rolls Royce Wraith, a vintage tractor and jeep, accompanied by over 15 classic cars and motorbikes, kindly provided by local Storrington And District Classic And Sportscar Enthusiasts, and friends, and parents of school.

Many visitors and Friends of School dressed in keeping with the era, adding even more colour and glamour to the day.

The glorious sunshine brought out the best of the May spirit in everyone as well as a large crowd.

MP Nick Herbert popped in for an ice-cream and a chat with visitors and staff too. Every raffle ticket was sold out, thanks in part to all the generous local businesses, families and friends who donated great prizes. The Pimms bar had to be replenished with ice and top up drinks with a quick dash to the supermarket after only half an hour and the BBQ ran until after 4.30. This was undoubtedly one of the best fairs ever and sets the stage for the twenty-fifth May Fair next year.

All of the teachers were there to support the children in their performances, and spectators all enjoyed seeing them join in the skipping in the entrance parade and coordinating the children’s dancing. Mr.Bradshaw’s singing and songwriting group brought out grins in the audience with a rendition of Happy among other songs.

Parent Governor Tim Rose (no relation) dressed as Elvis, compered the afternoon and said, “It was a really fun, family day out. Our children, staff and community did an amazing job together making it such a great day.”

Headteacher Mr Rose said: “Local businesses and supporters’ generosity must be congratulated especially in the current economic environment. The funds raised are used to advance the education of all of the pupils of the school. Shrinking budgets could undermine the enrichment activities we would all wish to provide for our children. Thanks to our supportive community this need not be the case.”

Nearly £4,200 was raised at the event.

The bouncy castles were sponsored by Wall Brothers Ltd (Carpets & Rugs), the Pimms bar by the Crossways Veterinary Group, the luxury Fortnum & Mason Raffle Hamper by Courtney Green and the Cake Stall and Cafe sponsored by Positive Images Design & Exhibitions Ltd. FOSA would like to mention special thank yous also to All Fire UK, Marquee2Hire, Scott Free Range, Troup Shoot and Slinfold Golf and Country Club, as well as all the other sponsors.

The community working together makes these events truly memorable. The strong partnership between staff, governors and parents, teachers and pupils, and local business’ backing comes together in fundraising through FOSA, the Friends of School Association charity number: 298245. The Chairman also thanked staff, businesses and everyone involved.

Sarah said: “It really was a perfect day, the sun shone, the children danced beautifully, it was so colourful with the may staffs and the may dancing, people made such an effort dressing up it made more of the event. It makes all the hard work seem worth while to see the children having so much fun.”