Sheep Fair tradition to be revived in Swaffham
There will be a taste of Swaffham's history this weekend when its Sheep Fair tradition is revived in the Market Place.
The event is on from 8am to 3pm this Saturday, May 26, and will include a mock rare breeds auction supporting a host of local good causes.
A number of different breeds of sheep will be at the Buttercross for visitors to see, while shops are participating in a window display competition.
And Friday's indoor market will also have a sheep-based theme to many of its stalls.
Sheep fairs were a common feature of the town in the 19th century when up to 9,000 lambs could be sold at a single event.
The last fair was held in 1942, but organisers hope the revived fair, which is being staged in association with the Melsop Farm Park, could become an annual feature on the town's calendar again.
Town mayor Colin Houghton said: "The Sheep Fair is going to be a step back in time for Swaffham as we once again see livestock being auctioned in the town centre, this time all for charity.
"A lot of hard work has gone into the organising, so we hope people turn out in support of what could become an annual event in the town."
Charities benefiting from the auction will include Nelson's Journey, the Merle Boddy Centre, the Myers Field Trust, the West Norfolk Riding for the Disabled's Magpie Centre headquarters and the Royal British Legion.
Swaffham's county councillor, Ed Colman, said: "Local businesses have really bought into the Sheep Fair and it has all the makings of a great family day out.
"It would be great if we can get lots of people into the town."
Fellow county councillor Fabian Eagle, who serves as auctioneer for the town's regular poultry markets, said: "The main purpose is the promotion of Britain's native breeds of livestock and the chance to know what breed your lamb or beef has come from either by buying from one of the local butchers or enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants.
Many of Britain's native livestock breeds are endangered and one way people can help them is buy eating them as they can then become economically viable for farmers to keep."
South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss added: "The flourishing sheep trading and wool industry of days gone by firmly placed Swaffham on the map so I am delighted to see its return to the town.
"Combined with the fabulous food producers, an extremely family friendly focus, rare breeds on show and up close and personal experience – the sheep fair really will be a great way to celebrate the rich farming heritage of our market towns."
As well as the town's free long-stay car parks, visitors will also be able to park at the Antinghams on London Road, courtesy of Heygate Farms, for a minimum £2 donation. A park and ride service will also be available from the Swaffham Raceway.
