Speen enjoys a ‘quintessentially English fete’ under the sun

Described as a “quintessential English fete” the Speen village fete made its annual return at the weekend.

Red arrows flying overhead and the sound of a brass band filled the summer air on Saturday (June 10).

Friends and family in their hundreds turned out to the Speen Recreation Ground for food, fun and refreshments.

The event was opened by Speen Parish Council chairman Ian Wilson.

Kennet Radio provided the music as people immersed themselves in a different world with the English Civil War Society Marques of Winchester Regiment.

They put on two 30-minute displays and ran a living history encampment.

They also put on a drill display with musket and cannon and had craft activities open for people to get stuck into the fun themselves.

Clown, Mr Muddle, provided entertainment for children while many of the grown-ups enjoyed observing the many classic cars on show.

There was also a bouncy castle, children’s sports and traditional stalls and games.

Visitors also enjoyed the refreshments from the bar, barbeque and the tea tent. Ice cream was also on offer.

To add to the planned fun, visitors were treated to a coincidental flyover from the Red Arrows.

The event is facilitated by organisation Newbury Lions.

Vice president Margo Payne said it was nice to be out in the sun and have the event back in its traditional June slot, rather than in its post-lockdown September slot.

“It was so lovely,” she said.

“I would call it a quintessential English fete. Everyone felt it was a great community feel.

“It was well attended considering how hot it was.

“People actually commented that it felt like a really nice community event.

“We will be back next year.”