Crowds go back in time in fun charity fundraiser

KILTS, bagpipes, peasants and apple pie were all the frenzy at the annual Medieval Fayre in Port Elizabeth at the weekend.

Thousands of visitors, some kitted out in 15th century attire, flocked to the Victoria Park grounds on Friday and Saturday, where they were entertained by the likes of the Algoa Caledonian Pipe Band, dancing, singing and martial arts demonstrations.

The event, in its 13th year, was organised by the Rotary Club of Port Elizabeth West. Proceeds go to various Nelson Mandela Bay charities.

Fayre convener Steven Lancaster said yesterday while they had not yet calculated the exact amount of money raised, he was pleased with the outcome. More than R500000 had been raised and donated to charities in previous years.

"The event was enjoyed by all and we hope to host another one next year," Lancaster said.

Stall owners, visitors and their children were delighted at the wide range of entertainment and food at the fayre.

A beer tent was set up in the centre of the field to allow for a quick break from the heat after temperatures reached a sweltering 36°C on Saturday afternoon. On sale at the various stalls were fresh produce, jewellery and art.

Diane Mackay, owner of Tattoo Inc, said she would definitely return to the fayre in the years to come.

Mackay does body piercing and spray-on tattoos at her stall, and also sells a wide range of costume jewellery.

She said she usually set up shop at the beachfront on a Sunday, and that the fayre was a pleasant change.

Another popular choice was the stall Milkwood, which sold locally produced fruit and vegetables.

Food for sale included yummy pancakes, mouth-watering venison burgers and Mexican tacos and burritos. Large, freshly baked apple pies proved popular and sold out quickly. - Kathryn Kimberley