Boarstall Fête 20th June 2009

It hardly seemed credible that yet another year had gone by and that it was Boarstall Fête time, but it was eagerly awaited by the crowds who were pouring into the lovely gardens of Boarstall Tower at opening time. The weather, a critical feature of any fête, looked reasonably promising and, although it did rain for a short time in the middle of the afternoon, the crowds kept on coming.

As usual, there was plenty to see and do. The band, kindly sponsored by Total Butler, played in their usual mellifluous way, providing a welcoming atmosphere for about 2,000 people. About 400 of these climbed to the roof of the tower to watch the fun and, en route, to look at Len Rees's fine display of historic artifacts in the Tower's Banqueting Chamber. The street entertainers were a great success. In between the different parts of their act, which included juggling with knives and fire, fire eating, walking on stilts, balancing and much more, they allowed the children to have a go with the less dangerous props from their circus workshop and this was a great success, much enjoyed by all.

There were plenty of other attractions. The steam and vehicle section had a larger number of old tractors than in previous years, and many other unusual vehicles. There were lorries, cars, motorcycles and many stationary engines, as well as a log sawing engine. The fire engine from Brill Fire Station was a big pull as were the Alpacas and the side shows. Then there was the great variety of stalls, the tombola and the raffle, there was a busy tea tent, the ever popular bar, the cake stall, hot food and so much more.

The organisers are very grateful to all those who helped, to the generous sponsors, to those who gave the fête publicity, such as Bill Heine on Radio Oxford, and to those who put up all the roadside signs in the neighbourhood. Without doubt, Boarstall Fête can still claim to be the best local fête by far.

The next Boarstall Fête will be on Saturday June 19th June 2010. Put this date in your diary now!