STRAWBERRIES galore were available at Sandford when the Friends of Sandford School (FOSS) held their annual Strawberry Fair.

The school field was transformed, with a huge teepee as a focal point providing much appreciated shelter from the blazing sunshine.

The new Head Teacher, Jonathan Gower, got a soaking, much to the delight of the children having been persuaded to sit in the "hot seat" on the "Wet the Rector" game.

Alongside the strawberry cream teas were Marie Hélène's authentic French crêpes, Gretchen's drinks tent, ice creams from the back of a bicycle and a huge array of homemade cakes and toffee apples from the cake stall.

Year six children sold the Apple Recipe books they have spent many months creating and printing.

Younger school children sold their hand-painted flower pots whilst others performed musical pieces and sang in the entertainment area where Tina Guthrie and her merry band performed an array of Irish tunes.

The children also loved the two storytelling sessions held within the shade of the willow bench by Claire Viner, a professional storyteller and parent at the school.

There were lots of activities including the Live Buzz Wire, the giant tin can shy and pottery painting. Others included wellie wanging, pony rides and cake decorating.

Bindy Saywood, joint FOSS chair, said: "It certainly wasn't your average school fete.

"Yet again it proved to be a well attended community event with lots of parents, staff, governors and local people offering their time, enthusiasm and skills."

The final details of the profits from the day have yet to be announced.

Alan Quick