A lovely day was had by all at our Centenary Fayre on Saturday, 30th June. To our great relief, the weather was kind to us, with sunshine tempered by a blustery wind which threatened to blow everything around!
The Fayre got off to a good start as it was opened by our longest serving member, Mr Bernard Potter, and his wife, Mavis. Bernard talked to the young people about a very special gift given to him many years ago when he led the Fleet Town Carnival dressed as John Bull: it was a fine top hat. He surprised the children and the adult audience by finishing off his speech wearing a false moustache and glasses. This set the tone for a great afternoon of fun and fellowship.
A coconut shy, fishing for lucky ducks, Channel Island cricket, Splat the Rat, and many other games of skill and speed kept everyone amused. If a rest was needed then people could browse around the Fair Trade craft stall, or the RSPB, Fleet Pond and the Churches Together in Fleet and Church Crookham displays. To celebrate our Centenary you could paint a ceramic plaque for display, or buy a specially commissioned pen.
An even quieter oasis could be found in the hall, where the catering team worked hard to keep everyone supplied with home baked cakes, teas and coffees. All monies raised were donated to the United Reformed Church Commitment for Life scheme to benefit those people in Zimbabwe who so desperately need help at this time.
The Fayre was completed by a fancy hat parade led by Bernard, and the winning entrants were chosen by Mavis. A thoroughly good time was had by everyone, and many thanks must go to the Centenary Organising Committee and to all those who helped make the day a great success.
John Gibbons