Winkleigh's much-loved fair returns
Winkleigh's much-loved annual Fair is now underway, with a packed programme of community events and celebrations continuing throughout the week following a successful opening ceremony held on Sunday in the Town Square.
The Winkleigh Fair is one of Devon's oldest surviving community traditions, with the village fair originally granted a Royal Charter in 1262. More than seven centuries later, the Fair continues to bring together residents and visitors alike to celebrate the rich heritage and community spirit of Winkleigh.
Fair Week got off to a traditional start with the ringing of the church bells, music from Hatherleigh Band and the procession led by the piper through the square. Visitors also enjoyed the Blessing of the Well, the crowning of the Winkleigh Fair King and Queen, presentation of poster competition winners, a Fancy Dress Competition and the ever-popular Ball Rolling Competition.
With the opening events now complete, there is still plenty for residents and visitors to enjoy during the remainder of the week:
Tuesday 14 July – Bingo Night (7:30pm, doors open 6:45pm)
Featuring bingo games and prizes.
Wednesday 15 July – Vehicle Show (5:30pm)
Featuring vehicle displays, awards presentations, refreshments, a BBQ, ice cream and a raffle.
Thursday 16 July – Rounders Evening (time to be confirmed)
Featuring community rounders, refreshments and a raffle.
Friday 17 July – Quiz Night (7:30pm)
Featuring the village quiz, refreshments, cheese boards and a raffle.
Saturday – Fair Day (2:00pm onwards)
Featuring live music throughout the afternoon and evening, children's entertainment, a children's disco, inflatables, food stalls, ice cream, waffles, tug of war, the Winkleigh in Bloom awards and the Grand Raffle draw.
This year's Grand Raffle includes an excellent selection of prizes generously donated by local businesses and supporters, including:
- £125 cash prize sponsored by Clayton Cabinets
- £100 cash prize sponsored by Open Book
- £75 cash prize sponsored by South West Fixings
- A membership from Mark's Gym
- A treatment voucher from Mid-Devon Sports Massage
- A family photography session from Brynn Embley Photography
Raffle tickets will be available throughout the remainder of Fair Week, with the Grand Draw taking place during Saturday's Fair Day celebrations.
Organisers are looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors from across Devon to enjoy the remaining events and celebrations as Winkleigh marks another year of one of the county's oldest and most cherished village traditions.
Photo: Brynn Embley.
