by Alan Quick

IT was an action-packed week for the 764th Chulmleigh Old Fair and apart from wet weather on occasion, the week was described by the organising committee as “fantastic”.

It began with the traditional church service and blessing of the Fair Queen and her “royalty”, the opening by the raising of the white glove by Mrs Rosemary Wedlake and crowning of the Fair Queen, Madilyn Crocombe, by Mr Richard Wedlake.

There was the reading of the Royal Proclamation, which enables the Fair to take place, by Chulmleigh Town Crier.

The procession of the Royalty from the church to the Town Hall was led by North Devon Pipes and Drums and the Town Crier.

Later was the money scramble and children’s races followed by entertainment by Street Heat Samba Band.

Other events during the week included a flower festival, 60-plus stall craft and country market, the pavement artists competition, a country fair, sheep show, vintage vehicle rally and static engines, flower and produce show, children’s entertainment and a dog show.

Afternoon teas were served, there was a golf challenge and handbell ringing, a music night, an archive exhibition and many sporting events, including a football tournament and cricket match.

There was a town walk, motor scavenge, gymkhana and horse show, treasure trail, antiques afternoon, clay pigeon shoot, children’s entertainment, orienteering, dancing in the street, a skittles competition, Living History encampment and re-enactment battle, open road race, fancy dress competitions and much, much more.

The organising committee hope that some young faces will join the committee to help ensure the Fair continues in the future.