Rain fails to dampen fun day

But nothing was stopping these villagers from enjoying themselves, according to organiser Maggie Barlett.

“It chucked down for about an hour,” she said after the event on Sunday.

“But considering the weather it was very well attended. It was jam-packed inside for an hour or so until the rain eased off then people braved it and went outside again.”

Apart from stalls, raffle, and games, the open air day included arena events to entertain the crowd, such as a display by the Ninfield dance group led by Sam Guard, a tug-of-war contest, and falconry static display with the chance to see amazing birds up close. Live music was provided outside by The Exiles, while entertaining indoors was Norman McGubbin on keyboards.

The Ninfield Bonfire Boys gave a drumming display and a fun dog show was judged by Brett Maclean, who also handed out prizes to the winners.

Maggie said: “A special thanks to all the Ninfield people and local businesses who generously donated for the raffle and tombola - they did very well for us.

“Also, thanks to all the Ninfield Working Men’s Club members, because without them it would not have taken off. They gave all their time and effort.

“There’s an awful lot of back-room work in an event like this that goes on for a couple of weeks beforehand. Afterwards we had a whole day of clearing up to to do, so thanks to all those unsung heroes who get stuck in, and to all the members who helped out.”

The day was a fundraiser for Sussex Air Ambulance - last year the club donated £1,000.