May Queen Procession 2011

The weather was OK this year if not especially warm (coats needed earlier in the day) but it remained dry for the whole time with the sun putting a frequent appearance. The event took place on Bank Holiday Monday again (2nd May) and the Village turned out en-mass to watch the procession.

The procession was followed by a community fete, which took place on Spencer’s Field off Tuttons Hill. There was a huge marquee, larger than 2010 with a separate add-on for the bar at one end, as well as smaller tents and gazebos around the field housing attractions, stalls and activities as well as a paintball shooting range!

The Parish Council also had a formal presence there for the 3rd year running and erected a display, with the main focus being on the forthcoming Parish Plan Review and community bus projects as well as other information including about the Council’s role in the community it serves. Residents were also consulted very informally by means of a post-it survey on the Parish Plan, but also on the route for the planned community bus scheme, and there were also some giveaways to hand out. Many thanks to the many people who came long to say Hi!

The organisers did a great job and the event is continuing to grow, with a beer festival and barn dance (sell-out) being staged over the weekend, again all held in the marquee. The Parish Council continues to be represented on the May Queen committee and intends to continue to support it as best it can.

Solent View Road was closed again for a couple of hours, and this is where the procession mustered and the judging was carried out - a great community and family event!

It was great to see so many people from the Village out and about:

BEFOREHAND:

Paul marshalling before the band sets off