Clouds clear for Toft Hill and Etherley's village fete

IT was all eyes to the sky at the Toft Hill sports ground on Saturday.

And the good news for organisers of the annual Toft Hill and Etherley village fete was that the cloud and rain of the previous days had cleared and the sun was shining down on a fun-packed afternoon.

The afternoon’s entertainment kicked off with an energetic display by the Teesdale Flyball Dog club, which had entertained the crowds at Mickleton a couple of weeks previously.

Professor Nincompoop then took centre stage in the marquee with a laughter-filled children’s show.

Then came the highlight for many – the fancy dress competition, which featured a host of colourful costumes.

Music was provided by members of the Bishop Auckland Pipe Band, while Auckland Hospital Radio kept everyone informed and entertained throughout the event.

Durham Falconry brought along ten-year-old Jasmine – who flew straight to the mobile catering unit before swooping low over the heads of the crowds.

Stalls in the marquee ranged from railway enthusiasts to Etherley Junior Cricket Club – whose efforts during the event helped raise £247 towards the club.

There was a small display of tractors, a chance to climb on board a fire engine courtesy of the Bishop Auckland station and football target practice.

The event was organised by Toft Hill and Etherley Community Association and officials will follow up the fete with this Sunday’s (July 9) Big Lunch, another annual fixture in the village calendar.

This takes place in Toft Hill Community centre at 12.30pm. Tickets are £6 for adults, £2 for children and the menu includes roast chicken/ham, quiche and pastries plus summer puds.

There will also be bingo and a quiz.

For details and tickets, call 01388 832265 or 833293.

Two pages of pictures in this week's Mercury