THE tiny village of Fitzhead was buzzing at the weekend as hundreds of visitors and locals flocked to its popular annual fete on Saturday (July 27), followed by a duck race on Sunday which together raised more than £6,500 for the parish church and Tithe Barn.

Perfect weather saw the crowds come out to enjoy themselves, and within hours of the fete opening at Fitzhead Cricket Ground, every last burger, cake, and jar of jam had sold out, as well as the 350 race ducks.

Organiser Abi Wickham said: “It was a truly great fete with so many villagers giving up their time and energy to create a wonderful, traditional family afternoon out.

“As things stand we look to successfully pass £6,500 and possibly more once all final takings are in.

“The duck race feels like a post-fete summer reward, and we are very fortunate to have it.”

Money raised from the community fete, which traces its history to before World War One, goes to the upkeep of St James the Great Church and the Tithe Barn.

There was plenty for all ages to enjoy as the sun shone down, from delicious teas and cakes, burgers and sausages, to ice-cream, pop corn, and beer.

Stallholders did brisk business from books to clothes, bric a brac to jigsaws and toys, and cakes and jams, children had fun competing in traditional races, and everybody enjoyed the stocks, tombola, prize draw, and more.

The fete saw the final appearance of village jam maker Janet Weeks after making and selling more than 2,000 jams and chutneys since 2018.

Wiveliscombe Town Band played, the Rev Andrew Norris, from 10 Radio, kept up a high energy commentary on the proceedings, and there was a display of produce, craft, and creative work for the flower show side of the fete. 

The duck race on Sunday, complete with cream teas, was hosted at Holcombe Farm by Martin and Mandy Irish and saw more than 350 ducks entered, with visitors enjoying top class commentary as their ducks negotiated such river dangers as ‘Crocodile Corner’ and the ‘Leap of Faith’.