Medieval fun at a quintessentially English fete

On Saturday 11th August the colourful bunting danced in the light breeze to accompany the lively music from the Hooe Silver Band. After such heavy rain the whole day before how lucky we were to have fine weather for the day of the Summer Fete! The highlight for the excited children was the Fun Dog Show with a large number of entries across a variety of categories, including ‘Waggiest tail’ and ‘Most like its owner’. The Mayor’s Champion and Best in Show was Dougal, a 14 year old collie cross lurcher retriever. Our thanks to the show judge, Bernardine Fiddimore of Iden Kennels.

The Medieval Games stalls added some extra gaiety with wonderful period costumes, especially the colourful jester, and temptations like the medieval fruit machine and the chance to throw a wet sponge at an image of Donald Trump. From his smiley face he seemed to be enjoying it! Several charities were represented, including Rother Responders who gave instruction in the use of a defibrillator, with the opportunity for hands on practice – literally. The many visitors to their stand included some from Bristol, Canada and Australia as well as surrounding towns of East Sussex. The Pett Level Independent Rescue Boat was on view, and Monty drove his Santa Fé train around our beautiful cricket field showing off the splendid views.

A variety of stalls offered a wide range of lovely goods from original artwork to colourful bags from Africa; high quality handcrafted fabric, jewellery and wooden items. Delicious homemade vegetarian treats were in demand throughout the afternoon. The homemade cake and ice cream stalls were popular as were the tea and cakes on offer in the hall. A barbecue and Pimms Bar met the traditional refreshment needs of what was frequently described as ‘a quintessentially English village fete’

The organisers, the New Hall Management Committee, would like to thank all those who contributed to the raffle, Tombola and bottle stall and the many volunteer helpers for making this such a successful and enjoyable event. The provisional figures indicate overall takings so far of £2,490 before expenses. This includes proceeds of £518 from the raffle from which we shall give £250 to Pett Level Independent Rescue Boat, £125 to Rother Responders and £125 to Rye Memorial Hospital. The balance of the takings will go towards the planned refurbishment of the New Hall.

New Hall Management Committee