THOUSANDS of people are expected to come to Wokingham on Monday to enjoy the annual May Fayre.
The annual extravaganza will take place in the town centre in a slightly revised format as a result of the regeneration works, but organisers said that once again charities, local groups and companies will be coming together for a day of non-stop fun.
Organised by Wokingham Lions, the event will held in Denmark Street and Broad Street.
Up to 120 stalls will be available and there will be a host of entertainment including a Punch and Judy show, magic, street entertainers and attractions including a fun fair.
Chairman of the May Fayre, Andy Slay, said: “This year has seen its share of challenges in getting the annual May Fayre into place with the temporary loss of the Elms Field and Market Place and Denmark Street.
“Notwithstanding this we have been determined to keep the event in the town centre to help to support the local businesses and to keep the May Fayre a truly town centre based event.
“This year we will be based in Peach Street and Broad Street with many of the old favourites together with a number of new stalls who have taken the opportunity to become involved in this hugely popular annual event.”
As part of the changes, Broad Street will feature small fairground rides, an animal petting zoo, a food area with seating and a good number of stalls of various types.
Free entertainment will be on the stage in the entrance to Rose Street throughout the day and supplemented by Punch and Judy, magicians and roving street entertainers.
Mr Slay continued: “There will also be morris dancers and jazz bands together with a few other surprises that will pop up here and there, so if you hear music follow your ears and find out what is happening.
“Peach Street has a good number of stalls which we have managed to fit in to the limited space and I am sure that the event will be a popular as ever.”
The event raises thousands for good causes across the borough. This year, the main charities will be Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice and the Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
Mr Slay said: “My thanks to the team of volunteers who have helped to put this event on, the sponsors and the Town Council who have done their best to accommodate our needs in difficult circumstances.
“Every year the May Fayre raises a substantial amount of money for local charities and we think provides a fun day and helps to give our town a sense of community in conjunctions with the other annual events like the Wokingham Walk, Bikeathon, Wokingham Festival, Charity Fireworks, Winter Carnival etc etc.”
The event runs from 10am to 5pm and entry is free, although there may be a charge for some activities.
For more details, log on to www.wokinghamlions.org.uk
