By Maria Kastner

WITH a queue of over 100 people by 10:30am, Horningsham Village Fair began with an oomph as the gates opened at 11am.

With a record-breaking crowd of over 3,000 people, Steve Crossman, who has been a part of the fair for over 20 years, said the village has seen its greatest fair yet.

The show has been running for over 40 years, and has this year attracted crowds from places further afield such as Bournemouth.

“A huge thank you goes out to Lesley Trollope, Ken Windess, Helen Taylor, Louisa Cruickshank, Carol Cox, Margaret Long and Rick Gunning for all the behind-the-scenes work,” said organiser Caroline Dykes.

“As well as a special mention to Full Of Bounce who provided the three huge inflatables, the shooting gallery and the teacups.”

In keeping with tradition, Lord and Lady Weymouth opened the fair, together with their sons, Harry and John.

This year’s main crowd-puller was the dog show, organised by Bellevue Vet Clinic, which took place in the main arena.

With scone in hand and seated on hay bales, the audience members admired the local competitors in the youngest handler, dog-like-owner and best tail wager competitions.

Two traction engines provided free rides throughout the day while a car show featured a Mustang and the DeLorean.

Westbury-based Infinity Dance, with dancers ranging from five to 15-years-old, put on a backstreet dance show.

Like last year, the cake stalls and plant stalls remained a main reason for locals to visit and admire the achievements of their fellow villagers, in particular Susie Hilary, whose cakes raised £500. The bric-a-brac stall also broke a record by raising £1,100.

The success of this year's fair was highlighted by the fact people stayed an hour past its closing time.