Are You Going To Albury Fair?
Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme…
I couldn’t help but think of the opening lyrics of the famous Simon & Garfunkel ballad, Are You Going To Scarborough Fair?, as I wandered around Albury Heath yesterday afternoon on what seems to have been the first proper day of summer this year. It’s not the first time I’ve visited the Albury Produce Show and on each occasion I have been really impressed. Held on the Cricket Ground in the middle of July each year it has something for everyone.
Children were entertained on the roller coaster which consisted of a child’s slide, welded metal pipes, and a plastic tray on wheels manually operated by two conscientious gentlemen who ensured each participant had a safe but exhilarating joy ride.
There was terrier racing for dogs of all breeds and sizes. They chased a mock “hare” that raced back and forth along the course. Mayhem ensued as the dogs leapt back and forth trying to catch the toy.
An array of stalls sold plants and produce, bric-a-brac and vintage wares.
In the show tent there were flower arrangements, and vegetable competitions, alongside beautifully crafted exhibits and photographic artworks.
There was tombola and hoopla, football and egg throwing, and an array of other challenges to keep the young and old amused.
Catering stalls offered hotdogs and burgers, tea and cakes, ice-cream and candy floss as well as Pimms by the glass.
In the background a hog was being roasted on a spit in anticipation of the evening barn dance which would be followed on Sunday by the Albury music festival.
Not wishing to come home empty handed I couldn’t resist a framed papier maché dung beetle made by a local artist. With its gorgeous pearlescent body and bright yellow eyes the Ignotus Scarabeus will sit proudly on my mantlepiece. Despite there being a full complement of parsley, sage rosemary, and thyme, I was only tempted by a catering size tomato tin that was home to a rosemary plant which now looks very much an integral part of my kitchen garden.
Save the date for next year’s show. You won’t be disappointed!
