East Ilsley sheep fair returns this weekend

Historic fair back after one year absence

EAST Ilsley's historic sheep fair will be making its eagerly- anticipated return this Sunday, June 7.

This year the much-loved event, which regularly attracts thousands of visitors, will be changing venue to the Millennium Green and Puzzle Meadow on the southern edge of the village.

The fair will run from 12.30pm to 5pm and feature favourites including a novelty dog show, cooking competitions and races for adults and children as well as a variety of craft tents.

There will also be the traditional tug-of-war between rivals East and West Ilsley, while the hugely popular and entertaining wife-carrying competition will once again take centre stage.

If all that leaves you in need of a break, a tea tent, bar and food will be available to keep guests refreshed. Last year, the sheep fair was replaced by an event called Midsummer Madness.

Carolyne Culver, from the East Ilsley Sheep Fair Committee, said: “The sheep fair is back and we absolutely cannot wait. We are hoping for another good turnout and that the weather stays good.”

In 1620 East Ilsley was granted a charter to hold a sheep market in the village.

This became the second largest sheep market after Smithfield, London.