THE 2018 bi-annual Coldridge Village Fete, Vintage Rally and Flower Festival saw crowds of people enjoy a pleasant afternoon.

Retired solicitor Jeremy Lee opened the fete at noon after the traditional peal of bells from St Matthew’s Church.

The church saw many visitors that day to admire the most glorious flower arrangements depicting Wildlife around Us.

Highlights in the Main Ring were the Gun Dog Training Display, singing by Community Rock, Crediton and Copplestone TaeKwon Do and a "meet the hounds" session from Eggesford Hunt.

Commentator for the day, local farmer John Daw, with the help of Ringmaster, Andrew Green, introduced a record number of vehicles taking part in the parade of Vintage Tractors, Cars and Bikes.

There was also a large display of static engines for visitors to admire.

The Family Fun Dog Show was popular and attractions included a book stall, cake stall, plant stall, clay shy, donga machine, Guess the Age of the Donkeys, Guess the number of sweets, Guess the weight of the cake, milking a cow, nearly new, old fashioned games, tombola, treasure hunt board and many more.

Hundreds of ice creams were sold and the organisers had the forethought to make sure they had enough.

The traditional teas were also greatly enjoyed, as were the hot dogs and burgers. The bar provided refreshment.

Marilyn Daw, the honorary secretary, said: "It was a gorgeous day which saw a record number of people join us."

She added: "Our thanks must go to all the volunteers, including our young people, who came together both on the day before and at the fete and worked with a great sense of team spirit. Thanks also to those who provided such wonderful prizes for the Grand Draw.

"There was a wonderful atmosphere and the result of this is that the St Matthew’s Church Fabric Fund and Coldridge Village Hall will benefit from the total raised, which we are yet to have confirmed.”

There were a large number of stalls and North Tawton fire crew took along their fire engine.

The fete and rally were held in The Church Field, by kind permission of the Keast family.

• More pictures relating to this article can be found in print in today’s Courier, Issue 1198, July 13, 2018. Please visit your local outlets for your copy.

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