All systems go for fair
THE popular Priory Fair attracts hundreds of families each year, and this year will be no different.
St Dominic’s Priory school staff and pupils are excitedly preparing for a successful day on May 26 as the fair draws around 15000 people each year.
There will be about 60 stalls ranging from various foods, homemade products, fresh vegetables, books and the ever popular white elephant.
Popular attractions include the St Dominic’s Priory ensemble, St Dominic’s Priory marimbas, lion dancing and a big screen for the rugby.
Preparations for the fair, organised by an executive committee reporting to the PTA, began in February with the assistance of pupils, teachers and parents.
"It is always brilliantly attended,” said school media liaison Laura Gillies.
"It is truly the social event of the year on PE’s calendar.”
The fair has become an annual tradition since it began in 1989 as a small fete.
The fete was made up mainly of a raffle and a few stalls so that a social event could be made for the draw.
"It developed year on year and it was converted to a fair in 2003,” said Gillies.
The fair used to be held on the first Saturday in May but was moved to the last Saturday because it clashed with the Spar ladies race.
That year the fair attracted a record crowd and the date remained unchanged since.
According to Gillies, the main aim of the fair this year is to raise enough funds to be able to put a roof on the amphitheatre.
"We also want to celebrate and enjoy the opportunity to work together as one big team of pupils, parents and teachers to achieve many of the goals set out within the ethos of our school.
"Priory Fair has become a tradition at the school and an event that cannot be missed, offering families the opportunity to enjoy the day, together to eat, enjoy the festivities and be merry.”