THERE was fun for all the family in Whitchurch as around 1,000 people flocked to the town’s parish fete.

North West Hampshire MP Sir George Young officially opened the event, which was held at The Lawn, in Church Street, and scores of Whitchurch residents took part in a range of activities.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Whitchurch, Councillor Mike and Jan Kean, also attended the fete, and launched a series of duck races along the River Test.

Members of the Whitchurch Amateur Dramatic Society kept crowds entertained as they paraded through the fete in costumes, including a sailor and an illusion outfit which featured a woman talking through a window.

Visitors to the event were also treated to a host of musical entertainment, including brass and string performances from pupils at Testbourne Community School, in Micheldever Road and a set from local folk band, Grizzly Folk.

Also in attendance at the fete was the Whitchurch branch of the Royal British Legion who showcased a range of their memorabilia to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

A £1 entrance fee was charged to adults attending the fete which, along with funds raised through a raffle and refreshments, will go to All Hallows Church, in Church Street, to support the work it does to help local charities.

Simon Woodman, chairman of Whitchurch Parish Fete committee, said members are hoping to raise £7,000 for the church.

He told The Gazette: “It was a brilliant day and we had perfect weather.

“The fete exceeded expectations. The money will go to support the five charities that the church supports.”