There is an old saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes” – Bishop Monktoners gathered to prove this theory at the Family Fun Day on Spring Bank Holiday Monday.

Despite the intermittent showers throughout the afternoon, there was a lovely warm atmosphere around the beck as families, neighbours and friends came out in force to enjoy everything that was on offer. The mixed weather was reflected in the activities of the younger participants – many had immaculate face paint, clutching an ice cream, while others were in wellies and raincoats splashing in the stream.

This was the 25th (or so- there is some debate!) such occasion though this was the first to be organised by a new team. From this year the day, formerly referred to as Hog Roast Day, will be known as Family Fun Day, a new description to reflect all the different activities and food offerings.

There were familiar favourites such as the duck and pig races, a tug of war across the water and, of course, the legendary hog roast. However, there were also some new additions for this year. There were children and vegetarian options available at the food stall, a chance for people to see inside a real ambulance and an array of stalls, including handmade crafts, plants and a tombola. People who fancied something sweet after their hog rolls could head over to the school where tea, coffee and cake were being served, and also browse an exhibition by the Local History Group. Once the main event was done, the lively mood continued, centred around the Mason’s Arms, which, as well as serving drinks throughout, had pizzas and chips available at a “hole in the wall” style counter.

One of the organisers, Stancey Coughlan, said, “The unpredictable weather and half term put a lot of people off, so we are down on numbers, but those who have come out have been in amazing spirit despite the rain and it has been another great village day”.

Expressing special thanks to the new committee, Stancey went on to add that it was down to the efforts of all the people involved that the event had been able to continue. “Not only do we spend hours with the planning and preparation, but we also work unbelievably hard all day too. To the amazing volunteers involved, before and on the day, a heart-felt thank you”.

It is hoped more people will come forward to help next year, especially as some of the volunteers had to remain on station all day because of the lack of helpers. The committee team will be announcing a post-event meeting in the next couple of weeks and urge anyone who has feedback about this year, ideas for next year, or can commit to managing just one task during the event, to go along. Details of this meeting will be posted on the website.

A lovely and memorable Bank Holiday community event and although clothes may have been dampened, people’s spirits certainly weren’t! The one exception was someone who was overheard saying they were disappointed that the races weren’t real ducks or pigs . Ah well, you can't please everyone and perhaps a challenge for next year’s organisers?