THERE was a special moment in Chulmleigh on Saturday, May 16, when Chulmleigh Old Fair 2026’s Fair Queen and Royalty were announced.

Due to the number of nominations there was no need for a vote and therefore the Fair Committee was pleased to announce the following: Fair Queen - Rosie Lucas Ridge, Attendants - Isabella Lee and Ayla Loosemore, Crown Bearer - Mollie Trott, Chief Herald - Harry Crocombe and Heralds - Matthew Crossley and Diego Gibson Ferreira.

Rosie (16), a pupil at Chulmleigh College, said she was “very excited” to be selected as Fair Queen.

Rosie is a previous Chulmleigh Sheep Show exhibitor and also took part in the Fair Sports Day, winning several titles.

John Dixon, vice-chairman, Chulmleigh Fair Committee, said that this would be the 772nd Chulmleigh Old Fair, it being 772 years ago in 1253 that King Henry III signed a series of charters granting permission for annual fairs to be held in many towns and villages throughout the land.

John added that he was looking forward to a “great fair” and was “praying for good weather”.

The Fair will take place from Tuesday, July 28 to Saturday, August 1.

The Fair Committee work hard all year round to organise the packed programme of events.

It begins with a Family Church Service followed by the Crowning of the Fair Queen, Money Scramble and entertainment.

Events traditionally include a Craft Market, Golf Challenge, Flower Festival, Sheep Show, Vintage Vehicle Rally, Country Fair, Pavement Artists Competition, Flower and Produce Show, Dog Show, Tennis Tournament, Sport for All, Children’s Party, Motor Scavenge, Treasure Trail, 6-a-Side Football Tournament, Orienteering, Afternoon of Fun and Entertainment in Fore Street, Judging of the Fancy Dress Parade, Afternoon Teas, Skittles Final, Traditional Fair games and race, Open Road Race and Street Party, plus many more.

For more information, visit: https://www.chulmleigholdfair.co.uk/