Village celebrates Queen’s birthday

CHAPMANSLADE held its own village celebration for the Queen’s birthday this month with a village fayre.

Village hall secretary Denise Page reports, “After a damp morning putting up the tents and gazebos, Chapmanslade School Choir opened the party with their delightful singing of several carefully chosen songs to perform a fitting tribute to the Queen – including Happy Birthday Your Majesty!

“The crowds soon arrived and enjoyed duck racing, egg throwing, skittles, making birthday cards, Beat the Buzzer, a bouncy castle and games organised by Active Trowbridge.

“Meanwhile cakes arrived for the Bake Off competition which was judged by Alison Godwin and her friend Clare and, despite fierce opposition, was won by Mrs. Queenie O’Sullivan. The cakes were then served to accompany teas and coffees, while Ben from The Three Horseshoes provided delicious pulled pork and a bar. There were no excuses to be hungry or thirsty!

“The arrival of Kapow Super Heroes and Princesses caused great excitement amongst the children (and some of the adults!). Many photos were taken, while children chatted or just stood in awe of Spiderman, The Little Mermaid and Elsa.

“There was great excitement at 5.30 pm when a drone flown by Richard and Kieran Garvey took photos and videos which will soon be on the village website.

“The night was still young as the raffle was drawn and won by David Arthur, and the Tug o’Wars took place between various age groups.

“Still enjoying food and drink, the party continued until Lou Knight, Chloe Johnson and Bex Mould took to the stage and enchanted us all with their beautiful singing. This was followed by our very own Cley Hill Stompers who entertained us all well into the night.

“It was certainly a party to remember by young and old alike, and I am sure the Queen wished she had been there in person to celebrate her birthday!

“Thanks must go to all the helpers, and people who so kindly donated cakes, who enabled the event to be such a resounding success. There are too many names to mention, but special thanks must go to Roy Colman (a relative newcomer to the village) for his superb organisation.”