Thousands enjoyed the country fayre
THE Game and Country Fayre used to be one of Southport’s most popular events. It was first held in 1977 at Meols Hall in Churchtown and took place every two years.
Thousands of people enjoyed a huge range of country-themed attractions and activities. It was the biggest event organised by The Rotary Club of Southport and raised huge amounts of money for charity.
An advertising feature in the Southport Visiter for the show on Friday, May 28, 1993 promoted attractions including: Gun Dog Events; Horse Events; Fly Casting; Dog Show; Terrier Racing; Novelty Games; Pet Show; Clay Bird Shoot; Sheep Dog Display; Craft and Trade Displays; with a creche available. The event’s patron was Robert Hesketh Esquire.
Children turning up in fancy dress costume were admitted free! Other admission prices were £3.50 (advance £2.50); under 14s and OAPs £2.50 (advance £1.50); family ticket (two adults and up to four children under 14) available in advance for £7.50.
The Game and Country Fayre, held on May Bank Holiday Monday in 1993, ran from 10am until 8pm. An advertising feature in the Southport Visiter on Friday, May 28, 1993 said: “For a family day to remember this Bank Holiday Monday there is only one place to head for - the ninth biennial Game and Country Fayre at Meols Hall In Churchtown in Southport.
“The showpiece event organised by the Rotary Club of Southport combines the excitement of two event rings with all the dexterity and patience of traditional craftsmen showing off their skills. Whatever the weather it is a day out with a difference for the whole family.
“If dad is the strong athletic type then perhaps you might persuade him to have a go at the bale pitching competition or maybe try his hand at fly fishing. For the youngsters there will be pony rides, games, topical fancy dress, various competitions and lots of animals to watch and admire.
“Meanwhile mum can browse around the hall grounds, stable and courtyard areas where craftsmen in jewellery making, glass work, spinning, leatherwork and wood carving as well the traditional blacksmith, stone mason and thatcher will be displaying and explaining their skills to anyone with an eye for quality and interest in the craftsman’s traditional art.
“For the first time there will be two continuous entertainment areas featuring band music, gymnastic displays, morris dancing, folk singing and a few other surprises too!
“All the usual favourites which have brought the fayre such success since its inception in 1977 will be present. Horse jumping and horse shows will take place throughout the day in the main ring.
“One of the special highlights will be the Shire horses including the famous Tetley Shire team in full rigout. And there will be a special presentation by the sniffer dogs of Customs and Excise.
“A popular tent introduced at the last Game Fayre will be run by the Women’s Institute, many of whom come in period costume showing off their traditional skills, tasty treats and home crafts.
“The clay pigeon shooting is a real crowd-puller and a new feature this year will be a special Have-a-Go for beginners who want to have a first try of this popular sport under safe expert supervision.
“The Game and Country Fayre also raises thousands of pounds for local charities. More than £170,000 has been raised by previous shows and this year organisers are hoping to break the £200,000 barrier.
“Tickets for the event which opens 10am last admission 6pm are on sale in advance at the reduced rate of £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for children and OAPs. A special family ticket costing only £7.50 for two adults and up to four children under 14 will also be available before the event.
“Advance sales may be made at The Southport Tourist Information Office, Laycocks Travel, Rogers Hairstylists in Sussex Road, Flemings Pharmacy in Tarleton or from any of the Rotary Club of Southport. It promises to be a great day out for all the family.”
Do you have any memories or photos of the fayre? Please post them in our Stand Up For Southport Facebook group or email me at: standupforsouthport@gmail.com