Despite a slightly unpredictable week with rain on both Sunday and Tuesday, the 2024 Summer Fete at St. Peter’s Church, Flushing was a resounding success on Bank Holiday Monday.

With the perfect weather, guests were able to enjoy the festivities outside – a stark contrast to the one year when a wedding marquee on the Bowling Green sheltered guests from the rain.

Henry, the Cavapoo, with his owners Canon Stevenson and Mary StevensonHenry, the Cavapoo, with his owners Canon Stevenson and Mary Stevenson (Image: Irene Gardiner)

This year’s fete was opened by Henry, a Cavapoo owned by The Revd. Canon Andrew Stevenson and his wife Mary. Dressed to the nines with a large shimmering red bow, Henry delivered his speech through his human master.

Ava with her face paintedAva with her face painted (Image: Irene Gardiner)

The extremely happy atmosphere hovered over the proceedings as people pursued the stalls, entered their dogs into the Fun Dog Show, guessed the Mileage of the Triumph Vitesse, ate Cornish Cream Teas, drank Pimms, enjoyed games and, all in all, seemed to enjoy themselves.

The Fun Dog Show proved to be a highlight, with Lotte, a working Cocker Spaniel owned by Tim and Shelley, taking home the coveted Best in Show title. Gene, a young handler with his imaginary dog Rain Dancer, also made a splash, securing third place in the Best Child Handler Class.

Gene with imaginary dog Rain DancerGene with imaginary dog Rain Dancer (Image: Irene Gardiner)

Julian Osborne emerged victorious in the Guess the Mileage of the Car competition, with his guess being the closest to the actual mileage of 7,000.

John Vickery in the driving seat of his car, a Triumph Vitesse and the car being admired by Nicholas TrefusisJohn Vickery in the driving seat of his car, a Triumph Vitesse and the car being admired by Nicholas Trefusis (Image: Irene Gardiner)

The positive feedback was evident throughout the day. A woman from America was overheard expressing her enthusiasm for the event, and it seemed to be a sentiment shared by many. The church was particularly delighted to learn that they had raised just over £3,600 before expenses.

The church thanked the organiser of the event, Helen Syrett, all the volunteers, and everyone who attended this year.