On Saturday 4th August Bilston and Willenhall Lions again co-hosted with South Staffordshire Council the annual Baggeridge Country Fayre.
Despite some concerning forecasts from the Met. Office the weather was kind to us, just one heavy shower, and thanks to some very active publicity for the event over 4000 were in attendance throughout the day.
Visitors had lots to see and do: for the younger visitors there were small animals, a face painting artist from Dudley Zoo, a number of fairground rides, two bouncy castles, rides on the miniature railway and a traditional coconut shy. For the more adventurous there were also go-karts.
Throughout the day there was a programme of excellent entertainment. Local singer Richie Ray gave a number of live performances which had songs to suit all tastes and a team of dogs from ‘Dogs R Us’ bought along their handlers and together they amused visitors with their agility routines in the main arena. These dogs were all 'rescue' animals and had in many cases been victims of cruelty and ill treatment. The agility training had been very successfully used as a therapy for them. Monies raised from the demonstrations and any donations are used to fund the cost of caring for the dogs whilst waiting to be re-homed.
Other attractions included a local archery club who demonstrated their skills and invited visitors to try the sport for themselves. There were a variety of stalls which included opportunities to make coloured sand filled ornaments and paint ornaments as well as purchase handmade jewellery and other items.
Members from other local Lions Clubs manned the information marquee which attracted a good level of interest. Visitors were invited to complete a free Prize draw form and indicate if they would like to receive more information about our organisation. As a follow up to this a series of 'meet the Lions' evenings will be arranged in the area during the late summer.
Once again the Bilston and Willenhall Lions tea and tombola stalls were very popular enabling us to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Unit at New Cross Hospital which is one of our designated charities.
Final profits from the day are not yet known but we are optimistic that it will have been very worthwhile and have already begun plans for next year’s event.
