Saint Edmund, Downham Market, Norfolk

 History Fair & Fun Day (2011.09.10)

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In this spirit, St Edmund’s put on a History Fair and Fun Day. It was the only one in West Norfolk outside King’s Lynn. Our aim was, first, for it to be a fun day to open up our heritage and things of local interest to the public; and, secondly, to fund raise for St Edmund’s £1million Appeal. It also turned out to be a wonderful team building occasion and great fun (if hard work) for those putting it on.

On behalf of St Edmund’s I would like to thank the organising group, co-ordinated by Sheila Whittle-Bruce, and all those who helped in any way, and those who supported the event. It is all greatly appreciated.
With help of our good-hearted volunteers (and the Almighty supplying a calm and dry day at the end of a blustery week!) we were able to offer a full and varied programme:


Open Church *** Viewing from the Church Tower *** Community displays *** Stalls *** Traditional games *** Craft Stalls *** Anglo-Saxon Living History Encampment *** Refreshments *** Launch of ‘Martyr’s Blood’ Real Ale *** ‘History Hero’ children’s fancy dress, prizes presented by Elizabeth Truss MP *** Riding for the Disabled Pony (Cyril) to pet *** debut of ‘Tenor Ladies’ a capella quartet.


The day went very well indeed, with a constant flow of visitors from start to finish. You can find some photos elsewhere in this magazine, and Heritage Open Days ‘central’ are wanting to publish some in their Newsletter, as an example of good practice. But don’t just take my word for it, here’s some of the feedback:

SOME FEEDBACK RECEIVED

Today was everything we hoped for…and more….Grateful thanks to everyone who helped in any way, and those who came and had fun, drank Martyr’s Blood ale, played games, ate lunch, climbed the church tower, talked, laughed, enjoyed the weather.

Sheila Whittle-Bruce

We couldn’t have asked for a better setting for our information stand. We were never rushed but met several interested browsers, we very much enjoyed the singing of the Tenor Ladies, and the other stands and activities provided a diversion when we wanted a break. ‘Well done!’ to the organisers.

Rachel Bodle (Downham by Design)

I like to climb the Church Tower when I can. It was a beautiful clear day for it. Could not see all that was going on, but people I talked to enjoyed it.

Dawn Stevens

West Dereham Heritage Group had a stand inside the Church and with a display of our Village history from the 11th century to present. We also had on sale a number of publications written by group members of which there was a great deal of interest throughout the day. Our members present had a most enjoyable time and thought the interlude by the Tenor Ladies fantastic with great songs for the occasion. A very successful day,many thanks to the organisers.

Richard C. French

Barroway Drove Social Committee had a lovely day at St. Edmund’s Church. We had plenty of room to display our Village History collection and had a steady stream of visitors. The setting in the church is marvellous and the Tenor Ladies just completed the atmosphere with their singing. We enjoyed our lunch in the Church Hall and all the stalls and games outside. We all agreed it was a most enjoyable day and we look forward to the next one!

Kay M Beckett