St Mary’s annual church fete maintained its popularity in 2022, bringing the village together at the end of summer and welcoming visitors from far and wide. Equally popular was the Dog Show kindly sponsored and organised by Highcroft Veterinary Centre, Longwell Green.
The fete, which aims to be a traditional village fete had all the usual stalls and entertainments on show. This year, fete goers were entertained by Tatters and Tails Morris, from Bath, a group that prides itself on its unusual approach and dress. The fete stretched over three venues in the church and the garden of Church House where cream teas were served, and visitors were serenaded by the Jazzbeanz.
Teas and cakes were served in the church itself, where visitors could also visit the Ellacombe 200 Exhibition and enjoy a delightful display of needlework by Swineford resident Jean Aldous. Her display entitled Animal Magic was attractive to young and old. Providing music in the church was pianist, Natalie Moreton, and flautist, Jenny Harris.
The main action however was on the Glebe Field. After weeks of little rain, it was an unusual yellow colour but stood up to the many visitors. Entertainment was provided on the field by Oldland Brass, who have become a fixture of this event. Those with a strong arm could try their hand at longbow archery, provided by the Companions of the Longbow, or use their skills on the coconut shie, skittles or prove themselves to have the fastest boot in Bitton. There were some great stalls with an array of things to buy and a chance to see if your luck was in on the tombola or bottle stall. Further attractions were provided in a display of vintage cars and a tractor on the field – all lovingly restored and maintained by their owners. For children there was Professor Hudd’s Punch & Judy Show and a glitter bar for face adornment. As usual there was a licenced bar, tea, ice creams a barbeque and a pulled pork and vegiball stall – so no one went hungry.
Winner of the summer raffle was Wendy Stone, who collected her hamper of delights.
The Fete Committee would like to thank all those who made the fete so successful, both those who worked so hard to provide stalls and activities as well as all those who attended
