Last Monday, August 29th, the small village of Chaldon with a population of around just 1,800 residents, raised about £6,000 for local charities again this year from its Bank Holiday Fête held in the field of St Peter and St Paul's School.

Rob Richards, the Chair of the School Governors, together with Roger Davies from Chaldon Village Council, is one of the key organisers of the event. He was delighted that the Chairman of Tandridge District Council Councillor Brian Perkins, accompanied by his wife, had returned to open the fête having done the same last year as Vice Chairman. Stall holders much appreciated his personal touch, chatting to them at the beginning of the fête and then again before he left.

This hugely popular event began during the Second World War as part of the war effort raising money for campaigns such as 'Wings for Victory' and has continued almost without a break since then. Pictured is a winning fancy dress competition entry for 1967 'Those magnificent Men in their Flying machines' , the creation of Tony Fowler who was associated with Chaldon Fete for very many years.

In March a large core of local residents including members of the village council and all the local organisations begin the planning for the August fête. As the day approaches more members of the community spring into action –selling raffle tickets, collecting goods, making posters and displays. The day itself attracts more than a thousand visitors many of whom travel in each year from surrounding towns and villages. One gentleman from Sanderstead who never misses the event said 'I remember walking with my father along Chaldon's footpaths, it is a wonderful village and you must fight hard to keep its precious rural character'.

This year despite the death of Polygon Dixieland Jazz Band leader some months ago, band members got together again (one of their rare gigs) and gave a great performance and have promised to return again next year. They have generously donated the band leader's PA system to the fete.

Rob Richards expressed his gratitude to the school for the continued use of the buildings, despite summer building work to provide a new secure entrance.