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The Haverhill Show raised thousands of pounds for charities despite some inclement weather




Despite the unwelcome impact of heavy rain that arrived partway through the event, the organisers of the Haverhill Show were still pleased with how the day went.

The annual show, which is free to attend, took place from 10am to 4pm at the town’s Recreation Ground on Sunday.

After a bright start some rain heavy arrived at about 12.30pm, causing the number of visitors to drop off, although they picked up as the weather improved later in the afternoon.

The Haverhill Show had a land train for the little ones to take a ride. Picture: Mecha Morton
The Haverhill Show had a land train for the little ones to take a ride. Picture: Mecha Morton
Beth Slipper-Carroll, two, on the cups ride.
Beth Slipper-Carroll, two, on the cups ride.

The chairman of the show’s committee, Joe Mason, said: “The Haverhill Show committee members were delighted with how the day went.

“There was a real threat of cancellation due to bad weather and fortunately, the weather improved enough to make the event possible and in the morning the people of Haverhill arrived in huge numbers to enjoy our fun community event.

“The rain and its effects on the closure of some attractions which lasted for over an hour impacted our fund-raising efforts which on the day came to just £1,962.10 which we have been able to round to £2,000, using a little from our reserves.

The Centre Stage Company was among the performers at the music bandstand.
The Centre Stage Company was among the performers at the music bandstand.
Gary Gosney with Oscar, two and the prize he won at the show.
Gary Gosney with Oscar, two and the prize he won at the show.

“Whilst it didn't dampen the spirits or the fun people were having, the busy crowds had thinned significantly by the time the rain had stopped.”

The show had more to offer than ever before, with games, live music, a food court, a large number of charities, community groups and sports organisations manning stalls.

There was main performance arena, an inflatable and crazy golf activity area, bungee trampoline, arts and crafts village, Classic Car Show, Baby Show

Joe gave a big thank you to Culina, the main event sponsor - who also had two HGVs on display, inside which people could take a look and see the equipment provided for drivers.

Joseph Timmings,12, having a go on the guitar.
Joseph Timmings,12, having a go on the guitar.
Haverhill Rugby Club was one of the many organisations, clubs or charities to have a stand at the show.
Haverhill Rugby Club was one of the many organisations, clubs or charities to have a stand at the show.

He also thanked Haverhill Town Council and all the attraction sponsors who helped to fund the event: Peasgood & Skeates, Yellow Blossom Photography, Adams Harrison Solicitors, Thurlow Garage & The Pottery Shed.

He also gave a ‘huge thanks’ to Nathan Watts and the Disco Kitchen (who provided a constant musical backdrop) for the help and support they give each year.

Luke Birnie, 11, having a go on the bungee trampoline. Picture: Mecha Morton
Luke Birnie, 11, having a go on the bungee trampoline. Picture: Mecha Morton
Jazzercise was one of the many things taking place at the Haverhill Show. Picture: Mecha Morton
Jazzercise was one of the many things taking place at the Haverhill Show. Picture: Mecha Morton

Joe continued: “We have been humbled by everyone's kind comments about the event, and we are truly grateful for being entrusted with putting on Haverhill's biggest community event of the year.

“We are delighted that many charities raised money through their own fund-raising activities.

“Whilst the £2,000 we raised may not be a huge sum compared with previous years, the total amount raised across the Recreation Ground will have been thousands of pounds more.

Paul Sadler showing how to make rope with a machine from Haverhill Rope, Sack and Twine co. Circa 1820.
Paul Sadler showing how to make rope with a machine from Haverhill Rope, Sack and Twine co. Circa 1820.
The crowds came to support the Haverhill Show on the town's Recreation Ground. Pictures: Mecha Morton
The crowds came to support the Haverhill Show on the town's Recreation Ground. Pictures: Mecha Morton

“We now invite local charities and good causes to bid for a share of the money.”

This can be done by emailing haverhillshow@outlook.com.

Kelly Bennett, the show’s treasurer, said: “We would also like to thank all of our attractions, traders, crafters and local good causes who despite the weather forecast still came with their stalls and stands to support us and the show, it really means a lot to all of us.”

Seren Wilson, six having a go at the crazy golf.
Seren Wilson, six having a go at the crazy golf.

The deadline for applications will be Wednesday, July 31 and the committee will announce the successful applicants on Monday, August 12.