Tuesday 1st August 2023 - Village Fair, Gardening Club's Summer Social & the Summer that Never Was

The annual Village Fair drew hundreds into the village. Just after eleven, we walked over to the Sports Field and found the fair was in full swing; people were sat enjoying the refreshments, partaking in the various games and perusing the craft stalls and displays. In addition, there was a good turnout of vintage cars, full of character compared to today’s autos. Entertainment commenced midday, with singing duet, Madeline and Andy, and continued throughout the afternoon. In the past, when Peter and I have run stalls, to raise funds for the charities FAITH Animal Rescue and Seal & Shorewatch, the fair definitely quietened by two o’clock but when we walked past in the afternoon, although people were leaving they were being replaced by those arriving. The Mundesley and Cromer Roads were very busy with congestion near the junction with the High Street.

Fortunately, the rain held off this afternoon for the Gardening Club’s Summer Social. This was held at the home of two members. Indoors, a full tea was laid on by the Committee which included food provided by members. Tables were laid out with tablecloths, crockery, cutlery, serviettes and an assortment of sandwiches, sausage rolls, nibbles, scones and cakes. Pots of tea were provided and to be quite honest, you couldn’t have had a better tea in a tea shop or café. We were able to walk round the extensive gardens which are full of pathways, mature trees and shrubs. If I had to chose a favourite, it would have to be the mulberry, a tree you rarely see in gardens, which produces sweet and juicy, raspberry shaped fruits. All in all, it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.

In my blog for 29th July 2011, I referred to it being ‘the summer that never was’ and unless the weather improves, I will be using the same descriptor for 2023’s summer. July’s weather has been a disappointment and the forecast for the first ten days of August is pretty uninspiring. My geraniums have not appreciated the rain. I grow them because they don’t need much water, are easy to deadhead and slugs leave them alone, but I am going to have a rethink and have less of them in the garden next year. Four geraniums looked so awful, with sodden heads and shabby leaves, I have pulled them out. No figures published yet, but I do think July will be one of the wettest on record.

Today’s photos show crowds heading down the aisle of stalls at the Village Fair and the congestion on the road.