Not even rain could ruin the Brockley fayre

Lewisham residents dancing at the Midsummer Fayre Photo: Francesca Waite

Brockley Society’s Midsummer Fayre took place at Hilly Fields, on Saturday and even the rain and freezing wind didn’t dampen the spirits of those who attended. For other summer events see the end of this post.

The Brockley Fayre was jam packed with children, families and teenagers having a day out together. The main white tent held a range of  hand made items, including greeting cards, jewellery, cakes, paintings and gifts for children.

Rita McDonell has sold her crocheted accessories for the past four years at the Fayre.  She said: “Its not too bad today, but it’s a bit rainy.  My pendants made from salt dough are very popular, as well as the bags and hats.

Rita McDonell and her crocheted accessories stool Photo: Francesca Waite

“They are  unique, and I won the environmental award for them four years ago.”

Amongst the bric-a-brac stalls and hand-made jewellery, charities such as RSPB Nature Reserve, Neal’s Yard and Friends of the Earth set out their stalls.

One of the biggest attractions was Xtreme Falconry, the birds of prey display team, where you could get up close to birds such as vultures and owls.

If this was all a bit too much, then you could lie down for a relaxing Thai  massage.  Or if you would rather get out some aggression, you could take part in the martial arts show.

Kamil who took part in the martial arts show Photo: Francesca Waite

Cyclists from the  London Cycling Campaign came along ahead of Bike Week from June 21st.  Jane Davis said: “We are here today to talk to people about cycling, and whether they would like to join some of our rides.”

“We talk with people about their cycling habits, as well as giving them some advice.  We have had quite a few people visiting Dr Bike, who is here  today.”

East London Lines also met four Jack Russell’s: Bruce, 4, Lilly, 3 and Frankie and Mishka, 2, who were very excited to be taking part in  a parade with other local canines.

Frankie, Mishka, Bruce and Lily preparing for their moment Photo: Francesca Waite

Overall, the most popular stalls are the plant and flowers.  New Cross Gate’s Beautiful Gardens, London sold Canna Lillies, Geraniums, Hanging Baskets and Fruit trees, other stalls sold cuttings as well as chilli peppers.

Whether you were stuffing your face with Candy Floss, winning on the Coconut Shy or jumping on the Bouncy Castle the main purpose of the Hilly Fields Fayre is to have fun and this year was no different.

Other Summer Events:

London Cycling Week runs the whole week with loads of events to choose from

British Waterways Celebrate Bike Week with  Towpath Rangers along London’s canals. There’s everything from live music, to guided cycle rides, boat trips and safety sessions. To find out more about the events, and to register for the boat trip, please visit www.waterscape.com/twotings, email joseph.young@britishwaterways.co.uk or call 07899 837612.

More LCW events aLook Mum No Hands t 49  Old Street EC1V 9HX, 020 7253 1025

  • Monday 21 June 7.30am–11am
    Cycle route-planning
    Drop in and pick up a free cycle route map and some expert advice from LCC on the best cycle routes in town.
  • Tuesday 22 June 7.30pm
    Bicycle Film Night
    Look Mum No Hands! pulls down the blinds for an evening of bicycle films. Entrance is free and no booking is required.
  • Wednesday 23 June 7.30am–11am
    Free legal advice session
    LCC’s professional legal advisor will be on hand to offer free advice on cycling-related incidents.
  • Thursday 24 June 8am–4pm
    Beat The Thief
    As part of LCC’s Beat The Thief campaign, the Met Police will be providing a free bike security marking service, and LCC will be offering tips on how to lock your bike.
  • Friday 25 June 7.30am–11am
    Dr Bike free maintenance
    The Courtyard will turn into mechanics workshop, as trained mechanics will be on hand to offer you a free bike safety check.

Spitalfields’ Festival runs until the 26th June.  An astounding collection of events are offered from classical to modern pop, all passionately performed by artists and musicians both local and international. See our review of  Melvyn Tan’s piano recital.

Ethical Just Got Fabulous on Saturday at The Rag Factory, 16-18 Heneage Street, London E1 5L.  It brings together ethically produced fashion and lifestyle brands that are “on-trend” and “fabulous. Go see.

Sydenham Arts Festivals Summer Season 2010, with over seventy events during the three summer months (and a little bit of September!) – diverse music, dance, drama, comedy, film, poetry, visual arts, children’s events and workshops –  utilising a variety of local venues and parks.

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