THE weather was perfect for the crowds of people who went along to Morchard Bishop Playing Fields Association Vintage Rally and Family Fun Day held at the Playing Fields on Saturday, August 1.

Fields of Gold sung by Copplestone Choir at Morchard Bishop, video Alan Quick

Young Freddie enjoys sitting on Lindfield Day Opportunities young bull Hamish. AQ 7163
Young Freddie enjoys sitting on Lindfield Day Opportunities young bull Hamish. AQ 7163 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

There was certainly plenty to see and do.

A reconfiguration of the layout of the field this year enabled visitors to see more of the vintage vehicles, quite an impressive display of cars, tractors, motorbikes and engines, all gleaming in the sunshine.

Reach sung by Copplestone Choir at Morchard Bishop, video Alan Quick

The Lindfield Day Opportunities alpacas enjoyed the attention at the Fun Day. AQ 7177
The Lindfield Day Opportunities alpacas enjoyed the attention at the Fun Day. AQ 7177 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The Ian Robinson Memorial Cup to the Best in Show was awarded later in the afternoon followed by the Best in Class rosettes.

Ferret racing, always popular, was back and this alternated with lovely singing from Copplestone Choir.

Welly wanging at Morchard Bishop Fun Day, video Alan Quick

Copplestone Choir sang a variety of songs at the Fun Day. AQ 7208
Copplestone Choir sang a variety of songs at the Fun Day. AQ 7208 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

There was a craft marquee, a very busy barbecue, jacket potatoes, ice creams, tombola, games, inflatables and a range of other interesting stalls.

A variety of animals from Lindfield Day Opportunities were a delight to see for young and old.

Phil Bourne exhibited his BMW motorbike and ST1 sidecar. AQ 7210
Phil Bourne exhibited his BMW motorbike and ST1 sidecar. AQ 7210 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Volunteers who sold prize raffle tickets at Morchard Bishop Family Fun Day. AQ 7239
Volunteers who sold prize raffle tickets at Morchard Bishop Family Fun Day. AQ 7239 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Challenging and unusual games were welly wanging and the egg throwing competition.

There was a bumper prize draw with dozens of prizes.

A Hornsby engine pump in action at Morchard Bishop, video Alan Quick

Colin Andrews ran a stall selling books, CDs and other items. AQ 7130
Colin Andrews ran a stall selling books, CDs and other items. AQ 7130 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

From the Pavilion, teas and coffees were available plus home-made cake. The Sports Club Bar was open all afternoon for those seeking liquid refreshment.

It proved to be a great day to catch up with friends, old and new.

Excess books were sold from Morchard Bishop Book Swap run in the Memorial Hall from 3pm to 4.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month. AQ 7133
Excess books were sold from Morchard Bishop Book Swap run in the Memorial Hall from 3pm to 4.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month. AQ 7133 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Tom sold his woodcraft made from scrap wood at the Fun Day. AQ 7141
Tom sold his woodcraft made from scrap wood at the Fun Day. AQ 7141 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The event is the primary fundraiser for Morchard Bishop Playing Field Association.

It is a register charity with the objective of providing access for recreation to all in the parish.

It maintains, improves and insures the buildings, playing field, children’s play area and tennis court.

Tractors at Morchard Bishop Vintage Rally. AQ 7160
Tractors at Morchard Bishop Vintage Rally. AQ 7160 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Cakes and tea were for sale from the Pavilion. AQ 7202
Cakes and tea were for sale from the Pavilion. AQ 7202 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

It receives no council funding.

Thanks went to all who supported the Rally and Fun Day which helps to maintain the village sporting facilities.

Marilyn Daw ran a stall on behalf of the Friends of St Mary’s Church, Morchard Bishop. AQ 7246
Marilyn Daw ran a stall on behalf of the Friends of St Mary’s Church, Morchard Bishop. AQ 7246 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)