THE early May bank holiday was a foodie treat for the 500 or so people who visited the Marhamchurch Food Fair.

Everyone enjoyed an interesting variety of food, live music, children’s competitions and attractions together with a grand auction, all in aid of the newly opened village shop.

The weather was perfect on Monday, May 6 for an event which is not only a fundraiser for the shop, but also aims to bring together the many elements of village life, including school, haven art and crafts group, farms, pub and shop. This created a wonderful community atmosphere relished by locals and visitors alike.

The 12 food stallholders represented existing suppliers to the shop (Whalesborough Cheese, Polmorla pasties, Sooz Sweet and Saucy, Jacky’s Cakes, Widemouth Wet Fish) and other small local artisan businesses such as Sabin’s Coffee, Carey Valley Wines, Zach’s Ice Lolly Bar, Cornish Country Cordials and Sweet P Chocolatier.

Dave Sargent was back to entertain everyone with a cookery demonstration and an added feature for the children this year was Claire’s face painting.

Other activities for children included a dinosaur hunt around the village and a lamb pen kindly provided by Rob Bray which was a real hit. All ages were involved in the bake-off and photographic competitions.

The cream teas were in constant demand, serenaded by ‘All@C’ ukulele band and outside Friggin Riggin and Aidan of Bude Guitar provided a wonderful atmosphere for the hot food on offer from Chris Joplin’s hog roast, Dan’s barbecue, Polmorla and Christina’s crêperie.

The new shop noted record numbers and sales on the day and was able to showcase the significantly increased range of stock available to the village all year round. The money raised on the day was in excess of £800 which will contribute to the aim of employing a part time manager as soon as possible.

Peter Green, the coordinator of the event said: “Many thanks to Phil for his professional auctioneering skills for the grand auction, items for which were kindly donated by various local businesses and individuals.

“Also, thanks go to the number of people who devoted time and effort to what has become a signature event for the village.”