Penryn Fair Day fun despite the downpours
12:13pm Wednesday 29th August 2012 in News
By Greg Fountain, Reporter/Photographer
Having a go at juggling in Lower Market Street
Hardened visitors battled the rain at Penryn Fair Day on Saturday, intent on seeing all that the historic town had to offer.
From circus skills to Tin Can Alley there was plenty to see and do at the event, even if some of the attractions had to retreat indoors.
An official opening ceremony at 1pm was followed by the crowning of Penryn's best shopkeeper, which went to Tracy Rudland - from Earth and Water deli on St Thomas Street - after a public vote.
Former town councillor John Kirby, the fair day “king,” did the honours accompanied by his “queen,” Philippa Holden - both of whom were escorted by security guards and chauffeured to the opening in a special car, on loan from Penryn & Falmouth Funeral Directors.
A flypast by Culdrose's 771 search and rescue squadron at half past the hour roused a cheer from the crowd, even though some of the bands that were due to play struggled with the poor weather .
Swamp Circus did their best to keep spirits up with a cavalcade of stilt walking, hula hooping and juggling balls, while hungry visitors could treat themselves to some paella, hot dogs or iced buns.
Penryn Methodist Chapel played host to a craft fair with a soundtrack provided by both the Lemonaires Choir and St Keverne Band, while just across the street the Temperance Hall was awash with Jubilee-themed cream teas and visitors sheltering from the weather.
Falmouth mayor Geoffrey Evans joined his Penryn counterpart Gill Grant in enjoying the celebrations, although they were both thankful for their umbrellas before the day was done.
Town councillor Mary May, from the Fair Day Committee, said the bad weather had posed some challenges for the organisers, but stallholders showed “true grit” to “battle through the afternoon”.
She said: “There was some great community networking going on - such as when the British Legion loaned Falmouth Soul Sensation their marquee.
“I think when we asked the king and queen to open the town fair, they were overwhelmed and they gave it their upmost - they really looked the part.
“Most people felt it was good that we went ahead and didn't cancel. The weather was disappointing but there was a little ray of sun because some charities did make some money and cover their costs.
“Our committee just want people to know that we do thank them for their support and we are looking ahead to next year.”
An additional free indoor fair is planned for a fortnight's time, Mary said, and any stallholders that didn't quite make enough money are welcome to come along.
For more information on the “top-up” fair, or to contact Mary with ideas for next year's fair to be presented at the committee's AGM in January, call 377390.
