LEA’S first village fete was a roaring success, with over £3,000 raised. After 70 years of Lea Show, this year’s change of direction and venue resulted in an entertaining and fun day across Lea School and village hall grounds.

Blessed with good weather and excellent music from Cheltenham-based Echoes of France jazz duo, everyone enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere. This was helped along by the popular Pimm's tent and four local ales from Hillside and Wye Valley. The hog roast supplied by Model Farm was also demolished in record time.

The 25th anniversary art exhibition went equally well as the large selection of homemade cakes and teas, while over 30 stalls provided much for children and adults alike to do. Other attractions included Wild Oats Morris Dancers, tug of war, rare breed sheep and a companion dog show. Highlights were a visit by Bay Middleton a Harris Hawk from Newent International Centre for Birds of Prey and a youth team of trial bike riders demonstrating motorbike skills while jumping over a range of obstacles, including a car.

Tim Fanshawe, chairman of Lea School PTFA, said: “We knew it was a challenge to create our first village fete following on from 70 years of Lea Show tradition, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive.”

The fete committee, school and LRA are overwhelmed by the support and help received. Sponsors and all businesses donating prizes to the grand raffle and silent auction have been so generous, but the fete would not happen without the help of everyone else like stall holders, setting-up group, cake bakers, children participating in competitions, teachers, car park attendants, face painters and many more. A huge thank you to all who came and supported the fete in any way.

Later in the summer, Lea Residents Association will be hosting a fun ride around the stunning south Herefordshire countryside - more information to follow.