Hundreds of villagers turned out for Wistaston’s annual Village Fete for a packed day of entertainment, fundraising and community spirit at Wistaston Church Lane Academy.
The event, organised by Wistaston Community News & Events, returned to the school grounds with the support of the academy.
It began with a colourful parade from the school car park to the main arena, led by the sound of Scottish piper Reg Flower.
Taking part were members of the 35th South West Cheshire Scouts carrying the Union Flag, alongside Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies, Rainbows, Crewe Army Cadets, Fox Dance Academy and TGA Street Dance Crewe.
Also featured in the procession were retiring Rose Queen Poppy Edge and her Attendant Alona Thomas, followed by this year’s new Rose Queen Poppy Kemp and her Attendant Robyn Edge.
The classic vehicles used in the parade were kindly provided and driven by Jeremy Smith and Derrick Millington.
Visitors were welcomed by Rev Mike Turnbull, Rector of St Mary’s Church, Wistaston, and Richard Chaplow, who shared duties as Masters of Ceremonies.
One highlight was Poppy’s reflection on her year as Rose Queen.
During her reign she raised funds for Mary’s Meals, the international charity which provides school meals to children living in some of the world’s poorest communities.
The Rose Queen crown was then formally passed to Poppy Kemp, who announced her chosen charity for the coming year would be Macmillan Cancer Support.
Poppy Kemp paid tribute to her predecessor and outlined her fundraising ambitions.
She said: “Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Poppy for her Rose Queen year.
“She has been an excellent role model and has raised lots of money for the Mary’s Meals charity, with Alona by her side.
“I am really honoured to be chosen as the next Rose Queen and I am very grateful that Robyn is my Attendant.
“Together we will make a great team and I am sure we will have lots of fun along the way.
“My chosen charity is Macmillan. Since 1911 this charity has helped provide free medical and financial support to people living with cancer across the UK.
“Macmillan are dedicated to ensure that nobody has to face a cancer diagnosis alone.
“Robyn and I are looking forward to organising fundraising events over the next year and our first opportunity is today here at the fete.”
The pair’s Pot Luck stall proved a success, raising £117 for Macmillan Cancer Support during the afternoon.
The fete was officially opened by Debra Sloan, Wistaston’s Wistonian of the Year 2025.
A FIFA World Cup-themed fancy dress competition brought extra colour.
Judged by Debra Sloan and Cheshire East Mayor Councillor Judy Snowball, the competition was won by a youngster dressed as the famous World Cup Trophy.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors were entertained by performances from TGA Street Dance, Crewe Concert Band, Fox Dance Academy, Crewe Army Cadets, Wistaston Singers and Discover Dancing Ballroom.
More than 30 stalls representing local charities, community groups and businesses lined the fete field.
Families also enjoyed a children’s play area, displays from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, and a classic vehicle showcase presented by members of the M6 Junction 16 Motoring Club.
Refreshments were provided by Wistaston Scout Group, the Food Hall, an ice cream van and a variety of other vendors.
The award for Best Dressed Stall was won by Shavington Village Festival & Pantomime for its Australia-themed display.
A spokesperson for Wistaston Community News & Events said: “The Village Fete once again demonstrated what makes Wistaston such a special community.
“It was wonderful to see so many local groups, volunteers, performers and residents coming together to support one another and enjoy a fantastic afternoon.
“We would like to thank everyone who attended, took part, volunteered, sponsored or helped organise the event.”
This year’s fete was sponsored by Whitegates Sales & Lettings. Cockshades Farm Caravan Storage provided logistical assistance.
Next year’s fete will mark a major milestone as the event celebrates its 50th anniversary. The 2027 Wistaston Village Fete will take place on Saturday 19th June.
Wistaston Community News & Events is always looking for new volunteers.
To get involved, visit https://www.facebook.com/wistaston/ or https://www.wistastoncommunity.co.uk/
(Story and photos by Jonathan White)
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