ALL things marking the end of the Second World War were celebrated at this year’s Blaisdon fete.

The torrential storm didn’t force organisers to cancel – although they did think at one point they might have to.

Fete committee chairman, Stuart Gent said: “I was very close to cancelling as I didn’t think people would come along if the weather was awful. Luckily it brightened in the afternoon and we had a fabulous time.

“Unfortunately the owner of the 1930s Austin 7 we expected cancelled as it is partially-restored and the weather would have damaged it.”

The homemade cakes and lunches sold out as people dived into the decorated village hall from the rain.

“The hall was beautifully decorated in bunting and I’m sure it looked exactly the way it would have done 70 years ago,” added Stuart. “Lots of people also dressed in clothes of the period and the two escorted walks around the grounds of Blaisdon Hall proved very popular.”

•See this week’s Review for more photographs.

In addition to the usual fete stalls, there was a rare breed sheep on display and a “green goddess” fire engine.

“We raised in the region of £1,000 for St Michaels and All Angels Church and Blaisdon Village Hall. Each year those who attend say how good the atmosphere is for a small country village fete and often they return.

“On behalf of the committee, I’d like to thank everybody who attended and supported us as well as those who helped to make the day a success.

“This Sunday (August 30) Blaisdon war memorial is being re-dedicated and the name of Brendan McGuirk is being added to it. It’s a little over 70 years since Mr McGuirk was killed in action, a few days after D-Day, but for reasons that are not clear his name was not placed on Blaisdon’s war memorial. He is buried in France.

“Brendan was a pupil at Blaisdon Hall Salesian School and shortly after leaving he moved to Gloucester where he married. Brendan and his new wife had one son (who he never saw). Brendan’s son is still alive and has been invited to the re-dedication service at 12noon.”