Big queue for St Mark's fair

This year the thoughts of everyone involved were with the Church Missionary Society in general and with parishioners Sarah and David Hall who are currently serving it in Bangladesh.

Traditionally, the St Mark's fair is also a corporate effort with the various church groups, plus individuals, taking responsibility for stalls.

There was no shortage of support in response to their efforts. As 10am opening time drew near the queue at the door of the church hall grew steadily.

As Ursula Cleaver, one of Saturday's organisers, explained, groups responsible for stalls ranged from the Women's Fellowship,Arts and Crafts and World-Wide Mission Group to the Wednesday Club, the Steppping Stones widows' club and the Brownies and Guides.

The enterprising Guides had been busy hand-painting and decorating pencils and pencil boxes.

From cards to children's books, soft toys to books and videos, by the time the queue had got into the hall they found plenty on offer.

The event raised 1.250.