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The show usually enjoys good weather but this Saturday was exceptionally sunny, with only a light, warm breeze. The good weather and the show's reputation as a the best village show in Hampshire attracted a record number of visitors. They were treated to lots of stalls, entertaining games and an increased number of arena events. All for a £2 entry fee with free parking! |
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| There were the bric-a-brac, books, plants, produce, games, competitions and a wide range of charity stalls to encourage the visitors to part with their money. There was even a display of meticulously made model steam engines. And the gaily decorated mechanical organ played cheerful tunes throughout the day. | |
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| For those who like larger steam engines, there was a full size monster which had skilfully negotiated Littleton's narrow roads on a low loader to be at the show. An ancient fire engine attracted many youngsters who enjoyed climbing all over it. Do they still dream of being a fireman or an engine driver in this computer obsessed world? | |
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| The smaller steam engine, run by the Winchester Model Railway
Society, wasn't ignored though. In fact it attracted hordes of younger
(and not so young) passengers. Throughout the day there was a lot of activity in the main arena. The West End Carnival Show Band, dressed in multi-coloured rabbit suits, entertained the crowds with their playing and offbeat humour. And Ray Prior gave a dazzling demonstration of the agility of his exotic birds of prey |
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The more physical pursuits were represented by the tug-of-war and
junior football competitions. The tug-of-war was won by the Running Horse
pub team who beat the Chimneys pub team in the final "pull".
Paul Ambrose thrilled everyone with an aerobatics display in his Pitt Special bi-plane but it proved impossible to photograph! |
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As usual, the flower show and craft
tents drew large crowds. Do these displays just keep getting better? The
work put in by exhibitors never fails to surprise and delight visitors to
the show.
You could view the work of the Winchester Photographic Society, buy wooden bowls turned by a master craftsman and even get hand-made Christmas cards. You might even have spotted our web site exhibition and competition in the village hall - advertised by our man from outer space! |
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| For the more energetic, there was a
football penalty shootout and the army had set up a difficult obstacle
course.
The balloon race release was delayed by the exceptional demand but entries had to stop when they finally ran out of gas! |
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But all good things must end and, after
last orders were called for the rabbit marching band and the pigeons were
released, it was time for the final prize-giving by the chairman of the
show committee. Somewhat surprisingly, he had to give one cup to himself!
The show committee and everyone who took part are to be congratulated on another great fun day out. |
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Additional photography by Andy Dunn |
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Show reports for other years can be found in the Scrapbook |
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