I got the feeling today that the voluntary organisations and other stallholders thought that it had been a good day in spite of its poor start with the rain. Similarly the shops that stayed open, particularly the food shops, all had a good day.

The absence of the fairground rides and the Fire Brigade on the Town Hall Square reduced the footfall of youngsters at that end of the Fair and this had an effect on those stalls that were sited there and this was unfortunate. 

I had agreed with the fairground people on site at 8.30 in the morning that the heavy rain was making it impracticable to give the youngsters a good experience and, therefore, we agreed to call it a day.

The Parade was a bit of fun and with so many dressing up in WW1 outfits it made it a magnificent spectacle – the video should be worth watching.

The Lord and Lady of the Manor (Steve and Marian) looked the part as they were transported in a Rolls Royce - just reward for their service to the Society.

It was great to see our MP, all five HBC Councillors and our two County Councillors taking part on this big day in the life of our town and the presence of the Hyndburn Mayor and his wife is always a pleasure.

All the entertainers seemed to enjoy themselves and they certainly provided good quality entertainment throughout the afternoon, asking us to remember them for the next Fair.

This quality entertainment seemed to be appreciated by the large crowd of local people that turned up on such an un-inspiring day weather wise - amazing people these Arroders.

Could I take this opportunity to thank you all for making this a very special day in the history of the Great Harwood Civic Society.

Peter Holden (President – Great Harwood Civic Society)