Trowbridge Carnival Country Fayre pictures as event attracts hundreds

The showers gave way to sunshine again - much to the relief of stallholders at the Trowbridge Carnival Country Fayre.

The event, the first of the Trowbridge Carnival season, was staged in the town's People's Park and is usually held in September prior to the town’s annual carnival procession in October.

This year, due to conflicting dates, it was brought forward to Saturday (June 17) and carnival committee chair Maryrose Mantle was thankful it had not been hit by rain throughout the day.

Maryrose Mantle, chair of the Trowbridge Carnival Committee, was delighted the showerrs disappeared and the sun shone through. Photo: Trevor Porter 69936-2 (Image: Trevor Porter)

She said: “Rain came in early in the day but thankfully just enough to clear the air then out came the sunshine.”

Trowbridge Town Crier and former world champion Trevor Heeks opened the Carnival Country Fair. Photo: Trevor Porter 69936-1 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Opening the event, with plenty to cry about, was Trowbridge Town Crier Trevor Heeks, who said the event was the start of his outstanding 37-year career.

He said: “I was chosen initially at a former carnival country fayre to represent the town and it has  led to an extraordinary career over the last 37 years including two world championships and several European outings.

“I am delighted to open the fayre; I am grateful for the chance to represent the town for all these years.”

Budding star magician Oliver Clarke, aged 12, stole the show with his magic tricks. Photo: Trevor Porter 69936-7 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Making his Trowbridge debut was young magician Oliver Clarke looking set on an equally promising career after stealing the show with his magic tricks.

Aged 12, Oliver is a member of the young magicians within The Magic Circle.  His performance raised over £200 which is being donated to Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.

His mother Lucy said: “I am so proud of him. People have told he has a great stage presence and a promising future.”

Vintage machinery enthusiast Mark Taylor with his team are planning to expand their displays. Photo: Trevor Porter 69936-6 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Another exhibitor has the Country Fayre to thank for his success with a display of agricultural memorabilia of yesteryear.

Mark Taylor, of Southwick, first exhibited hurdle making at this show years ago. Since then, he has collected and renovated many vintage  machines to display.

He said: “I am interested in machinery that worked the land all those years ago and it’s important to show today’s youngsters these items from yesteryear.

“Because so many people took  real interest in these machines from the 30s, 40s and 50s I have grouped a few like-minded friends together and we are planning a much bigger display for next year."

The Country Fayre attracted hundreds of visitors with more than 40 stalls and displays such as the blood bikes, vintage cars and dance displays.

Trowbridge & West Wiltshire Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association had a stall at the Trowbridge Carnival Country Fair, from left: Phil Kerrison (Vice Chairman); Phil Lobb (Membership Secretary); Dr Tony Clarke (Chairman) and Barry Gladman (Branch Secretary) (Image: Freelancer)

The Trowbridge & West Wiltshire Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association also had a stall, with members giving information to visitors.

For the younger visitors there were the traditional fairground attractions, which included the popular wipeout.