Chulmleigh Old Fair

by Peter Older, fair chairman

The weather was kind and with the fear of Covid receding, Chulmleigh Old Fair 2022 turned out to be one of the best attended for many years. It started on the evening of July 26th with the traditional opening (right), when a packed town centre saw the Fair Queen Harriet Peacock being crowned. After the children’s money scramble and races, we were royally entertained by Borderline Morris and Street Heat, both excellent groups.

Wednesday brought us the Country Market and Craft Fair (below), which again saw record attendances. We were entertained by The Hummingbirds, three very talented ladies who gave us an afternoon of nostalgia. On the Thursday there was wonderful participation in the Sports Day, and the Motor Scavenge returned after a three year gap with 31 teams entering, whilst the children had a great party at the Pavilion with Captain Coconut.

Friday was the Horse Show and Gymkhana, plus the fabulous Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at The Red Lion, followed by Jason Toft singing in the bar in the evening. There were also ongoing events including best dressed window, scarecrow, flower festival and golf challenge. The family fun continued on the final Saturday with the colourful fancy dress parade and street party.

Thanks to the many, many people and sponsors who make this ancient fair possible - now 769 years old - and we have already started planning the next one for July 25th to 29th 2023.

Photos courtesy Chulmleigh Old Fair