A HOT sunny day heralded the start of the LoveLea Village Fete on June 29, which was enjoyed by people from all around Ross-on-Wye.

Starting with an opening of live music by Duncan McCorkindale and recycled outfit themed fancy dress, judged by Cllr William Wilding, the day was filled with fun and sun.

With a team of volunteers from the PTFA, old friends, Lea Village Association (LRA), nearby villages and all the teachers and teaching assistants the day ran without a hitch: facepainting; slime making; skittles; obstacle course; football competition; archery and of course traditional stalls like hook a duck and tombola, local craft traders, plus the infamous tea tent (ran by the LRA) and grand raffle, with a holiday as the top prize.

Unfortunately, due to the heat and out of concern of animals' welfare, the organisers made a difficult decision to postpone fun dog show kindly organised by Chase View Vet Clinic.

There were fantastic displays: trail bikes riding over cars, school and village choir, morris dancers, rare breed animals, medieval workshop, Lea's local artists art exhibition in the village alongside the school children's art displays and even a paper aeroplane competition.

The newly formed Green Lea - a local forum for green ideas, sharing and action - made beeswax food wraps along with natural crafts from the school's outdoor education hut.

Forest Food Hub sold fresh produce and there was a stall of local produce and homemade goodies.

People were encouraged to walk to the fete if possible, refill their water bottles and enjoy local hog roast, local sausages or a veggie burger.

Organisers were humbled by the support they received from so many local sponsors, individuals and businesses who donated money, time and prizes to the event and they extend their thanks to them all.