THOUSANDS of party people have descended on Rowledge for some family fun in the sun.

The occasion was the 40th renewal of the annual village fayre on bank holiday Monday.

The festivities were ushered in at midday by retiring fayre committee chairman Helen Davies before a colourful display of maypole dancing by Rowledge Primary School pupils.

There were plenty of waggy tails in the dog show, cries of “that’s the way to do it!” in the Punch and Judy Show, and cheers from the sidelines during the eagerly-anticipated children’s sports and games.

The shouts of encouragement went up a few notches for the hotly-contested tug of war – won this year by St James’ Church after triumphing over a team from the Hare and Hounds pub.

Farnham Brass Band added to the atmosphere for much of the afternoon, and fayre-goers also enjoyed a range of rides, stalls, activities and games – many raising cash for charity.

In addition to the traditional coconut shy, crockery smash, stocks and tombolas, the young and young and heart made the most of a bungee run, mega slide and climbing wall.

The tea tent was sponsored by Bush Baby Travel, first aid provided by St John Ambulance, and the car park manned by Surrey Search and Rescue.

A grand raffle brought this year’s fayre to a conclusion, and organisers thanked the event’s volunteers and contributors.

* For more great pictures from the fayre, see this week’s Farnham Herald.