VISTORS to the Chardstock Street Fayre refused to let the bad weather dampen their spirits while raising money for good causes.

The outdoor event was held on Saturday, September 3, and saw fewer visitors than in recent years as a result of the bad weather.

But there was still a wide range of stalls and activities on offer for the public who did brave the rain.

Graham Vyse, of the Chardstock Street Fayre team, said: “The festivities got off to a rousing start with a procession through the village led by the Dorset Youth Marching Band and Chard Goldstar Evolution Majorettes and a pair of local llamas.

“The dog show took place in a break between rain showers and was as popular as ever, with entrants being judged by Joyce Fleming of Minster Vets, Chard.

“Much of the activity planned for the afternoon was curtailed by torrential rain and there was huge disappointment when it was announced that Chardstock’s very own morris troupe, The Dancers and Prancers, would not be able to make their once-yearly appearance, due to a waterlogged pitch.

“Fewer classic cars, motorcycles and tractors were on display this year, for obvious reasons, but those in attendance were greatly appreciated and added an air of nostalgia to the proceedings.”

St Andrew’s Church provided some respite from the rain and the Garwynn’s Reptiles and Bugs was extremely popular.

Children’s painting and community art project, a paper plane flying competition, a bell-ringing experience and a performance by the Eastern Promise Belly Dancing troupe also took place in the church.

In the late afternoon and evening the rain relented and performances by the IOU’s, John De Barra, Steel the Show, Feckless and Fuddle were enjoyed on the open-air stage in The Square.

Local lad Jack Ward performed his new magic act, Risk, and the last act of the event was The Musax, who performed classic rock favourites.

Mr Vyse added: “The rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of villagers and visitors for this annual fundraising event and this year the main beneficiaries will be the Devon Freewheelers and the British Heart Foundation as well as many other local good causes.

“Chardstock Street Fayre team would like to thank all those who helped to sponsor the event, volunteered their services to make it happen or came along to spend their money for the benefit of local good causes.

“Fine weather has been booked for the 2017 event, which always takes place on the first Saturday of September.”