Once again, the sun made a glorious appearance in time for the start of Longhope 84th fête. Due to recent refurbishments at the Rec this year, the fête was held in the grounds of Hope Brook C of E School, making good use of the hall and playing fields. The Rec had been freshly cut especially for viewing. The procession, starting from the Manor House this year, was delayed by several minutes while everyone waited for the police escort to arrive. It turned out they had arrived at Richard Read's wondering where everyone was! Residents of the Manor House (a nursing home) could enjoy the fête too this year.
No lorries were included this year because there wasn't enough parking space at the school - this was taken up by a bouncy castle.
Lots of people turned up for this year's fête and many remarked that the atmosphere was more intimate and friendly, although the headteacher wasn't impressed by the fact that the pigs were digging up the football field and the horses were leaving presents everywhere.
Unfortunately, there were more things happening than we had batteries and camera space for. With over 200 pictures to choose from, a selection are presented here for viewing.
Gloster Gladiators | The walkers getting ready | The arrival of the squeaky dragon |
Participants arriving for the procession | The Manor House | Nearly ready |
Perry's Alvis | This year's guests of honour alight their taxi | Ready, steady, go! |
The procession passes Court Leet | More of the same | |
Maid of Honour and Page Boy | Gloster Gladiators | Gloster Gladiators |
More of the assembled masses | The tiny walkers had miles to go | The police holding up the traffic |
Fast approaching the school | A selection of bouncy castles | Official opening by Bob |
Ye Olde Music Man | Mr Fenton the wood turner | Flower show |
Friends of All Saints' Church | Coconut falling action shot. | The make-up tent |
Vicky Harper and her latest cookbook | Pony rides | Forest of Dean card shop |
Tea and cakes in the school hall | Carnival Princess | |
The squeaky dragon | ||
Best at walking was Rhian | Another good walker | Mike and the welcoming address |
Bob opening the fete | Carnival Princesses and things | Carole has a bite to eat |
Wellies were advised for crossing Hope Brook | Gloster Gladiators on parade | The crowds |
More of the same | We said we would! | Two-pints Phil |
Hungry work walking from one end of the village to t'other | Music Man's crowds | Smile - you're on camera |
Skittles | Bugs from the Dick Whittington Centre | The Music Man entertains |