In
the morning just prior to the fete, the scarecrow competition
came to a close. The winning scarecrow was crafted by Tessa
Huyshe and Marcus Allum and was called " East Garston's
newest bellringer". To keep him upright Marcus
drilled a hole down through the sole of the left boot through
which a broom handle would pass, thus giving the scarecrow
the ability to stand up unaided. Unfortunately, Tessa had
built the broom handle into the right leg ~ hence the boots
being fitted the wrong way round. Second prize went to the
kids club for their off duty rugby player and third prize
to a seated scarecrow who's creators unfortunately I have
no information on.
Though
out the day there was an ongoing "Single Wicket Cricket"
competition. This was a knockout competition involving individuals
rather than teams. You usually start with 16/32/64 players,
but can organize preliminary rounds to cater for any number,
who are drawn to play against each other in pairs. Overall
winner of the competition was former E.G.C.C captain, Russ
Highnett.
Kevin
Robertson, railway author and historian, was kept busy during
the whole afternoon with enquiries about the old Lambourn
Valley Railway line that closed in the 1960s. Kevin has written
two books on the subject, both of which were available for
purchase on his stall.
After
a practice session in the hall car park, the maypole was re-erected
in the millennium field and we were treated to a colourful
and efficient display of dances by the youngsters of the village.
Former
jockey Colin Brown was this year's dog show judge, a task
that I do not envy one little bit. Colin set about the job
in hand in a methodical and light hearted manner. One highlight
I missed with the camera was during the "best child handler
class". when a rather large and boisterous young dog
decided to exit the arena at full throttle, clearing the low
fence in one bound and taking it's very young handler with
it......Happily both were unhurt
A
varied selection of stalls and activities were on offer from
fluffy pig racing, through jewellery and on to plants. (Below)
we even had ferret racing. Real ferrets at that.
(above)
Henry
gets a soaking from his sister......(below)
our hard working refreshment teams dispense food and drinks
as required.
The
afternoon music was provided by the very proficient and talented
Hungerford Town Band
A
short walk across the road and a craft exhibition organized
by Theresa Hing could be found in the Friends Meeting House.
Included were exhibits ranging from hand made quilts from
Joanne Rabbitts through jewellery and onto hatsmade by Sandra Cook
Carvings
and pottery were by Hilary Reem and the watercolour paintings
by Martyn Donno.
As
the sun finally gave up on us we came to the last event of
the day ~ The old familiar favorite of all village fetes "Tug-O-War"
The children went first, boys versus girls.
No
prizes for guessing the outright winners here.
Then it was the turn of the adults
The
organizers would like to thanks sponsors, helpers, the sun
and all those who attended for making this a successful social
occasion for all of the village. Over £2000 was raised
for local organizations; The Cricket Club, Kids Club, Church,
East Garston Amenities and the Social Club and Village Hall.
We have received many comments on the enjoyable day and suggestions
for the future and thus have already "penciled in"
a 2009 Fete for September.
