Sheffield Fair 2005

Event Report

Sheffield show has, this year, proved itself as a major event worth our efforts!! The event now boasts a very large display by the American Civil War Association as well as a re-enactors from all the time periods, and some unusual ones i.e. Cowboys!!

The weather gods were kind (most of the time!!) and the public turn out was fabulous, it helps that the show is FREE for the general public!!

It was great that everyone who said they would attend - did - therefore we had more members than we had promised the promoter, which made us very popular indeed....

We had the best 'pitch' in the whole event - right next to the arena and at the top of the hill where the public entered the event and as usual were inundated by visitors. On this point I have to pass on a massive thank you to everyone there for all there hard work, enthusiasm and "pose" value for the public (mentioning no names - Paul) A couple of members were also accosted by a professional photographer to be shot against the evening sunset!! - we look forward to seeing these in print!!

A special thank you to Paul Allen for stepping up to the mike for the arena spot - I know it's not easy with a small amount of Hoplites and Scythians - but it worked and the public thoroughly enjoyed it. The Lancaster Bomber flypast was spectacular on the Sunday, and made the parade go with a special whiz.

All in all this is turning out to be an excellent show, very well organised by Howard - with good facilities, plenty of camping space, good food, very good beer tent and friendly enthusiastic public.

The only disappointing aspect was the lack of security personnel in what is a public park. We, as a group, had no problems but at least one other group did have things stolen. This issue has nothing to do with the organiser Howard Giles but rests entirely with Sheffield Council - something that the Exec will follow up on for next years event.

August Bank holiday will always be difficult for the group, but his year proves we can split our resources and still all have a fabulous fulfilling weekend in our chosen areas.

Thanks to all members who attended both events

Tracey

More pictures to follow