LEAPING dogs and dancers in clogs helped to entertain the crowds at the Sherfield-on-Loddon village fete.

Hundreds of people turned up to The Green in the centre of the village on Saturday for the annual event.

While the event was dogged by the occasional heavy downpour, when the sun came out the fete fans were entertained by a dog show, dances by Basingclog Morris and Hook Eagle Morris Men, and live bands Stone Gecko and Frottage.

Tony Nicholson, chair of the trustees of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, officially opened the event after a procession by a marching band.

There was plenty of produce on display including a craft tent with 20 stalls, as well as stalls selling food and drink.

Ally Crunden, of Coleman Close, Oakridge, came for the day from Basingstoke with her friends. The 47-year-old said: “This is my first time here and it has been brilliant. There are lots of different types of stalls and I have bought lots of books and beer.”

This year’s event will raise vitals funds for three main causes – the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, a project to redecorate the village hall, and an extension to the 900-year-old St Leonard’s Church.

Bruce Batting, chairman to the fete committee thanked all involved, including cadets from RAF Odiham who helped to supervise the event’s car parks.