East Garston's biggest event of the year was once again with us on Sunday the 13th of September.   The Annual Village Fete, with all it's rural quirkiness provides a means of raising funds for a diversity of village organizations, while at the same time bringing those organizations together to work for the common good of our community. Equally important of course, is the fact that it also provides us with a chance to get out with our friends and neighbours for a most enjoyable day of fun, games and involvement.

Brand new this year was the introduction of Morris Dancing, undertaken by several brave and sporting folks from East Garston and along the Lambourn Valley. None were trained dancers but had learned their art in just three lessons during the week prior to the fete.

As has now become tradition, fete day kicks off with the "Round the Village Race". Pictured here are six of the runners all raring to go. Indeed the day had many things to look forward too and enjoy, including for the first time, a classic vehicle parade.

Again this year the "Single Wicket Cricket" competition ran throughout the day. This knockout competition involves individuals rather than teams. Naturally this event is heavily supported by the players within our own village cricket team, but anyone can pre-register to take part. The winner this year was East Garston Cricket Club Captain ~ Mick Highnett.

The village race now run, and the fete itself starts to come to life with its first visitors to the craft stalls and the beer tent. Ray Baker and Elved Phillips work flat out on the BBQ ~ knowing that shortly they will be snowed under with hungry customers.

Interested parties stayed roadside waiting for another new event introduced this year. I refer of course to the parade of classic vehicles. The cars and their owners assembled at manor farm before completing two circuits of the village. After which The cars were put on static display within the fete showground, enabling all to take a longer closer look at these beautifully restored machines.

With the last of the classic cars now safely parked in the display area, the fete started in ernest with people flocking into the stalls and eating areas.

The little pink racing pigs were paying a return visit to East Garston. Given their success and popularity in 2008 they had felt they owed it to their many fans to make another appearance this year...... welcome guys!