Civic leader praises King's Lynn church fete's community links

The role of church social events in bringing communities together was highlighted during the summer fete held by St Faith’s in Gaywood on Saturday.

The event was opened by West Norfolk’s deputy mayor, Geoff Hipperson, alongside his wife, Rose.

He said he was aware of the fete’s long history and the links forged through it.

He said: “It is an established tradition well worth continuing. I have been made aware people have fond memories of attending the fete over the years and it is where firm friendships have begun.”

Mr and Mrs Hipperson spent time touring the various stalls and sideshows, both inside the Church Rooms and outside in the garden in front of the church.

There was a brisk trade at the various stalls as people picked up their bargain buys and enjoyed tea and cake in the refreshment area.

A new element introduced this year saw the creative work of Gaywood area school pupils being put on show inside the church.

Pupils had been invited to paint a picture of St Faith’s Church and visitors were invited to vote for the best three. Prizes were later awarded for the winning entries.

Fundraising chairman, Anne Ess,who with her husband, Eric heads the organisation of the event ,said she was delighted at the amount of people that came to the fete.

She said: “I felt there was a lovely, family-friendly atmosphere and people enjoyed both the stalls inside the Rooms and the activities in the garden in front of the church which had been organised under the direction of Jenny Tooke.”

The fete is one of three major fundraising events staged each year by St Faith’s and organisers were delighted that a total of £1,360 was raised to be used for the on-going programme of worship and mission at the church where Anglicans and Methodists worship together.