AVMM were delighted to return to the beautiful gardens of Upper Wardington Manor House on Sunday 01 September to entertain the guests in warm afternoon sunshine at their annual Fete. Ten dancers and two musicians performed 14 dances in two sets with a short break for tea served in antique silver pots.

The organisers were very appreciative of our efforts and urged us to return again next year. The Fete was formally opened by the village’s oldest resident, 101 year old Evelyn Phillips, a lifelong dancer who, along with nine other volunteers, joined the side for an audience participation version of ‘Shepherd’s Hey’.

The afternoon was memorable for fine dancing, great camaraderie and much laughter. Our two Hobby Horses provided splendid entertainment to a large crowd. 12 year old Jockey Theo rode Percy with great distinction, fooling around during dances, winning a two horse race during the children’s sports, gaining a creditable third place in the best dressed animal competition and even joining in a Tai Chi demonstration. It was altogether a fine afternoon and we can’t wait to return to Wardington again next year. Our grateful thanks to James (our main contact) for thoughtfully providing beer and tea to keep us going and to all members of the organising committee for inviting us back.

Squire John Ekers