IT’S a celebration of spring but also one of the biggest events in the village, and as always a huge crowd turned out to see Selborne Primary School’s May fair procession.

The colourful procession made its way along the main street last Saturday, with May fair king and queen Alice Shaw and Archie Robertson accompanied by 10 attendants carrying florally decorated arches.

Leading the procession was Ronnie Davidson-Houston in his role as Gilbert White, the 18th Century naturalist who put the East Hampshire village on the map.

Behind the main characters in the procession came pupils, parents, friends, villagers and visitors who followed the route along Gracious Street to the school playing field.

Here they were greeted by Selborne School Choir, led by singing teacher Beverly Whittaker, performing a medley of songs.

This was followed by the Maypole dancing with pupils, trained by teachers Emily Higginbottom and Mandie Awford, weaving traditional patterns with their ribbons as they wound them round the pole, an act which won applause from delighted onlookers.

Although it was the May fair, rain threatened but thankfully held off until the fayre ended, so the barbecue, coconut shy, plant stall and other outdoor attractions did a roaring trade.

Inside, the school hall was packed with stalls, games and competitions, as well as a prize-filled tombola and raffle.

It was also a busy time for the refreshment stall with some delicious homemade cakes on offer and plenty of tea, coffee and soft drinks.

“We just made it” said headteacher Janet Knott. “The heavy rain began as we closed up so it didn’t spoil anything.

“As always, it was a very happy day with all the school taking part and the fair raised £2,500 for school funds. We will use it to update our IT equipment and refurbish our outside learning areas.”