Wellington Midsummer Fayre returns
Wellington Midsummer Fayre returns on Saturday 8th June and promises a packed programme of entertainment.
With forty stalls filling the parish churchyard, circus activities for children, a dozen different acts popping up around the town and a colourful costumed procession, visitors can expect a lively day in the market town.
Now in its 17th year, today’s Midsummer Fayre is a 21st century reimagining of much older events – Wellington’s June fairs were recorded 780 years ago in the first market charter, and the costumed procession recreates one described in Wellington 250 years ago.
Wellington Market – whose history dates back to that same charter of 1244 – will also be getting in on the act, with stall holders dressed on the theme of ‘traders through time’ and craft activities for children throughout the day.
‘The whole thing is inspired by historic Wellington,’ says organiser Rob Francis, ‘But above all it’s a celebration of Wellington today – the bands and choirs, the bakers and makers, the community groups that make the town tick.’ Alongside a host of local performers such as the Telfordaires and the Severn Valley Stompers, this year will see the first appearance of roaming brass quartet The Stray Horns who perform around the UK. The full programme is available online now with printed copies set to start appearing around Wellington in mid-May.
Stalls in All Saints Churchyard will be selling food, art and crafts from local makers, with others there to share information about community groups and projects. ‘Most of our traders are repeat attendees and they tell us they love coming. Within 48 hours of opening stall bookings we had filled about half our pitches, which was a record.’
There are just a couple of commercial pitches remaining – with priority going to local artist-makers. Anyone interested in booking a space should contact the organisers through the Wellington H2A website at www.wellingtonh2a.org.
This year’s event is supported by Wellington Town Partnership, main business sponsor DB Roberts Estate Agents and supporting sponsors Rowton Brewery and Anthony’s of Wellington Farm Shop.
