For 30 years, the Chigwell Fete has become part of the community in Essex.
Organised by the Rotary Club of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill & Chigwell, the May fundraising extravaganza has managed to collect tens of thousands of pounds for charities since its inception in 1989.
And this year’s Chigwell Fete, which was blessed with brilliant sunshine, was no different.
Local charities, small businesses and family-run stalls join the Rotary club each year for a fun day collating money for three chosen causes.
Bouncy castles, face paint stands and more were pitched and entertained the children all throughout the day.
Guests included local MP Eleanor Laing, Loughton Town Mayor Cllr Stephen Murray and other local dignitaries.
Local MP Eleanor Laing with Rotary members.
Pesh Kapasiawala, member of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill & Chigwell Rotary, explained that thousands of pounds have been donated to many different causes, impacting and bettering lives of those who need it.
He said: “Some of the money raised benefits the club’s memory café.
“A memory café provides a safe place where anyone is welcome to attend and speak to a volunteer and participate in activities.
“This can include listening to music from previous decades, viewing old photographs and listening to a speaker.”
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Chigwell Riding Trust also receives a split of donations from the fete. The trust provide riding instruction is given to all people, regardless of age and ability.
Manager Deborah Hall is a member of Rotary, and explained that the funds will benefit the riders.
She said: “The funds from the fete are used to purchase important equipment to continue our work. Over the years, this has included many new saddles and dryers.
“I am so proud to be a member of Rotary.”
Pesh pointed out how the fete had grown over the past 30 years to become an important part of community life. He said: “There is no event near us like it.
“As much as the money raised is important, it is great that as a Rotary club, we can bring the community together.”
