Roll up for East Garston village fete!

EAST Garston enjoyed its annual village fete on Sunday (July 7), writes Freddie Tulloch

Although dry while setting up, the forecast was pretty awful and there were even concerns whether the show should go ahead.

But somehow, East Garston avoided the biblical storm that hit Newbury and although there was the odd spot of rain, the afternoon finished in glorious sunshine and with everyone in high spirits.

It was an early start as locals arrived with cakes, flowers, pictures and veg of all shapes and sizes.

As the difficult task of judging took place for the produce show, the fete started with one of the favourite items – the fancy dress.

Not a massive field but the quality was there and it was George Quinton (the rocket man) who won the prize ahead of his cousin Loxley Quintin (cowboy on horse).

Next up was the Hungerford Town Band followed by the Garston Gallopers.

Both these local favourites were on top form and as they performed so the crowd wandered round enjoying all the stalls and different stands whilst trying to decide whether to enjoy a burger, church cake or sandwich, a social club ale, Pimm’s or all of the above.

Then, the highlight of the day – the dog show with a large number of competitive owners desperate to catch judge Charlie James’ eye.

Not a huge surprise to see the spaniel puppy owned by Lucy Cowan win the puppy category (Charlie loves spaniels!) but the other prestigious prizes were shared round between big and small.

Next up was the tug of war with the main battle taking place between the boys and girls.

There was no contest as the girls embarrassed the boys with a 3-0 win!

Meanwhile the produce prizes had been awarded and although there was not a lot to judge due to the time of year and weather, what was on display was magnificent.

Later on there was an auction with the highest bids being £20 for a delicious-looking lemon drizzle cake and £15 for three pots of Vanessa Lee’s homemade jams.

There was still time for some obstacle course races for the very young and crazy teenagers and the very competitive egg throwing competition was won by Jasper Rich and Oliver Clayton.

Many thanks to East Garston Amenities and the Allotment Association who organised the event and all those that helped with the set up.

Thank you also to those who braved the weather to attend but biggest cheer of all to Pat Murphy who was the man on the mic through rain or shine and kept the show on the road – an immense effort.

The proceeds of the day will be shared between the village, church, social club and village hall.