Village Spirit at Henfield Summer Fair

Most of us assumed the Henfield Summer Fair had fallen foul of the bad weather on the morning of 15^th June, as gale-force winds and heavy rainfall were featuring heavily on all our weather Apps. But, like all good Scouts, the B-P Guild aren’t put off by a bit of rainfall! The marquees went up (quite literally, in one case, when the beer-tent made its own way several feet up in the air across the King’s Field, despite being anchored by several burly Guildsmen) and the tea tables came out, all ready to welcome villagers to celebrate the King’s Birthday.

The sun finally peeked out, but sadly some of the exhibitors hadn’t been able to set up their smaller gazebos due to high winds, and a couple of the arena events were cancelled. Some were able to set-up inside the main hall alongside the bouncy castle with the kind permission of Henfield Leisure Centre and others sheltered at the side of the building to avoid the worst of the weather.

Despite it all, the event was a real success, the Dog Show organised by Hawthorn Vets was inundated with fluffy four-legged entries, the beer-tent full to bursting and the Wild Violets tea and cake stall did a roaring trade. It was great to see traditional games, sideshows, raffles and tombolas as well as some newer clubs and groups exhibiting and introducing some new members.

A big thank you to Henfield Football Club who entertained lots of the children with fun and games, and to compere Paul Samrah for the running commentary of events.  

Rob Laughton from the B-P Guild commented; “After a stormy morning the sun and smiles did come out, and we’re grateful to the clubs, groups, Football Club and Leisure Centre for all getting involved. We’re really pleased to be part of a small organising group which will bring the Henfield Village Fair back to Henfield Common next summer, if you’d like to help make it happen please get in contact.”

Finally, a huge thank you to everyone for turning out to support the event and acknowledge the hard work of the organisers, it’s so appreciated. Here’s to 2025!

Emma Cole