A SUNNY afternoon brought a record breaking crowd to Christleton’s annual village fete.

The festivities began with a parade from the village green on Saturday, at 1pm, with crowds of children and their families joining the Wirral Pipe Band and the new Rose Queen with her retinue and the outgoing Rose Queen, Erin Brackenbury and her supporters.

The parade ended at the Christleton Primary School playing field in Quarry Lane, where Chester MP Chris Matheson officially opened the fete and crowned the new Rose Queen, Isobel Holland.

He thanked the committee, volunteers and everyone who attended for supporting a successful community day.

There were more than 30 stalls, with traditional activities and games, local produce and refreshments for sale, together with a central performance stage.

This year the fete supported talented young musicians, including 14-year-old Finn Hibbert and local band The Instinctive, featuring members from Christleton High School, who performed live sets of their own songs.

Sponsors of the fete included CNS IT Ltd – Business IT Services, The Little Carpet Shop, Prodo Digital, Ring O’ Bells, Thomas Property Group, University of Law.

Donations for the raffle prizes included a year’s membership for the family at Chester Zoo, Manchester United match day and hospitality package, and a Kindle Fire tablet. 

The Duke of Westminster also sent a crate of Champagne, Mercure Hotel provided dinner for four and many residents generously offered prizes.

Dawn Sturgess, one of the organisers, said: “All money raised will be ploughed straight back into the community. Over 20 local groups receive sums ranging from £50 to over £300 every year. In previous years the fete has supported playgroups that have built shelters, the Scouts have bought tents, Brownies have been sent camping, and tools have been purchased to make the village look neater.

“The Pit Group has turned the pond’s slightly wild area into a haven of peace and tranquillity, a children’s playground has been built, kit for footballers and cricketers have all been purchased, and countless other projects have benefited.”

l For more information visit www.christletonfete.org.uk