THE theme of this year’s Bighton Fete was ‘Transport’ – and despite the heavy rain more than 200 visitors came to see the many vehicles on display, including Austin Sevens and vintage bicycles, tractors and motorbikes, plus the many other attractions.

Held on September 3, among the highlights was the chance to meet a Shire horse and her foal – transport from another era – and both adults and children were invited to create a ‘Transport Treat’ inspiring some incredible, imaginative creations ranging from a magnificent train with a sweet-filled tender to a curved marrow becoming a high-speed train and a hot-air balloon suspended over a representation of Bighton fete.

The children brought along their homemade shiny space rockets for the rocket competition and visitors guessed how many balloons were in the car.

There were large painted boards displayed around the grounds, a canal boat by the The Barge Inn bar, Trotter’s Independent Traders hallmark yellow van leading visitors to the visiting craft stands, a mobile library van at the bookstall, Andy’s Transport Café for the barbecue, and Concorde for the helicopter raffle.

Cream teas could be eaten on the Orient Express with a beautiful painted view looking down the carriage.

‘A Fistful of Feathers’ Falconry were exhibiting their wonderful birds, Tim and Terry Crowfoot brought their lovely llamas, and Children’s World included a chance to drive a Wacky Racer.

The ever-popular fun dog show lived up to its name and traditional games were not forgotten, with bowling for a pig, the coconut shy and a football game all popular.

The plant stall, bric-a-brac, tombola and raffle were all popular and the Bighton Station Buffet, otherwise known as the cake and produce stall, almost sold out.

The proceeds, which are not yet known, will be shared equally between Bighton village hall and church.

Next year’s fete will celebrate the centenary of the end of the First World War: ‘1918 – The Homecoming’.

The Bighton War Memorial is unusual in that it records the names of all who served – three who died and 44 who returned.

The fete committee are hoping to trace descendants or relatives of as many as possible to invite them to this celebratory fete.

If you or anyone you know might be related, call Bob Ellis on 01962 773427 or e-mail [email protected].