Wistaston Village Fete returned in full colour and high spirits bringing the community together for a fantastic celebration, writes Jonathan White.
Organised by Wistaston Community News & Events, the event was held at Wistaston Church Lane Academy.
Festivities began with a parade from the school car park to the arena, led by Scottish piper Reg Flower.
He was followed by 35th South West Cheshire Scouts carrying the Union Flag, Scouts and Guides with their troop standards, and Cubs, Beavers, Brownies, Rainbows, Crewe Army Cadets, Fox Dance Academy, TGA Street Dance Crewe, all joined by an energetic group of fancy-dress entrants.
The parade also featured retiring Rose Queen Lucia Kemp and her attendant Cerys McKeown, who arrived in style in a vintage Rover tourer.
They were followed by this year’s new Rose Queen Poppy Edge, and her attendant Alona Thomas, waving to the crowds from a classic MG Magnette.
Rev Mike Turnbull, Rector of St Mary’s Wistaston, was Master of Ceremonies, welcoming everyone to the arena as the celebration officially began.
Lucia gave a warm and heartfelt farewell speech, thanking Cerys and the community for their incredible support throughout her Rose Queen year, during which she raised a brilliant £833 for Cancer Research UK through bake sales, stalls, and games.
“It has been a joy and honour to represent St Mary’s Church and Wistaston,” Lucia said.
“We were overwhelmed by the kindness shown to us, especially during our Teddy Bear Stall event which raised £220 alone!”
The crown was passed to Poppy, who shared her plans for a year of fundraising for her chosen charity, Mary’s Meals.
“I’ve chosen this charity as it was close to my Grandad’s heart,” said Poppy.
“Mary’s Meals does incredible work providing daily meals to children in some of the world’s poorest communities.
“I’m excited to start fundraising with my lovely attendant Alona – with a teddy tombola, guess the name of the dog and sweet ladder games at the Fete, lollipop game and cake stall at the Duck Race, a sponsored bike ride, and cake bakes.”
The fete was officially opened by Kate Blakemore, this year’s Wistonian of the Year, recognised for her support for local women and families through charitable work.
This year’s theme – Cartoon/Animation/Disney – brought extra fun to the fancy dress competition, judged by Kate and Cheshire East Mayor Councillor David Edwardes.
Top prize went to Charlie Bate, a Year 1 pupil dressed as SpongeBob SquarePants, who won £20.
Second place went to Ethan and Elsa as The Wizard and the Lion from The Wizard of Oz, while third place went to a roaring T-Rex.
Crowds were also entertained by performances from Wistaston Singers, Fox Dance Academy, Crewe Concert Band, TGA Dance, and Crewe Army Cadets.
There were more than 30 stalls representing local charities and groups, a towering 8-metre climbing wall, four bouncy castles, and displays from Cheshire Fire & Rescue, classic car collectors, and Crewe & District Military Vehicle Club.
Refreshments were served up by the Wistaston Scout Group.
Long-time organiser Lynette Talbot stepped down after many years of dedicated service. Her commitment and passion for the fete were warmly recognised with thanks from the community.
A spokesperson from Wistaston Community News & Events said: “What a fantastic day! Thank you Wistaston for turning out in such great numbers and making the Fete so special.
“The community spirit was incredible, and we are truly grateful to all our volunteers. We couldn’t have done it without you!”
Entry was by donation and proceeds go towards future village events including the Flower and Produce Show (16th August), Model Boat and Duck Race (6th September), Fireworks Display (1st November), and Christmas Concert (5th December).
New volunteers are always welcome to join Wistaston Community News & Events.
To get involved, visit https://www.facebook.com/wistaston/ or https://www.wistastoncommunity.co.uk/
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