Tadley Treacle Fair returns this weekend

North Hampshire is making preparations for one of the area’s biggest annual community events.

The Tadley Treacle Fair is returning this weekend on Sunday, taking place at its usual spot of Saunders Field, behind the new Lidl supermarket, and it will run from 11am to 5pm.

Organised by Loddon Valley Lions Club, the fair welcomes thousands of people every year who come to experience family-orientated entertainment, browse local business stalls and taste great food and drink.

A Loddon Valley Lions Club spokesperson said: “We get thousands of people through the gates to support our fair. It's an amazing family day out.”

This year’s fair will be opened by the mayor of the borough of Basingstoke and Deane, David Leeks.

The fair usually makes a profit of around £10,000, which is donated to good causes and projects in the area.

Last year, the club held a 'Lion’s Den' event where local charities and groups pitched their projects for a share of the pot.

It was very successful and £8,500 was given away to seven different projects.

The Treacle Fair derives its name from a legend dating back to the late 19th century, which claims that there were treacle mines located in the village, and until well into the 20th century the locals were referred to as Tadley Treacle Miners.