The History of the Fair

Frampton Country Fair was established in its current format in 1986. Previously the Gloucestershire Wildfowlers Association (GWA) held a Sports field day at Frampton in the early 1970’s and another at Whitminster in the late 70’s.

When I joined the Committee of the GWA I decided it would be a good idea to establish an annual country fair, with a view to establishing a welcoming and hands on approach to the countryside, open to all ages and backgrounds. I first discussed the idea with Rollo Clifford with a hope that we could use the estate at Frampton. Rollo was very enthusiastic and gave consent to use the area around the gravel washer area.

The first Frampton Country Sports Fair took place on 21st September 1986 and I continued as organiser for six years at which time the fair needed more time than I could give it.  After some discussion with Rollo it was agreed that the estate office would run it. At this time it relocated to the polo ground in front of the Court where it continues to grow and flourish on the theme “The Living Working Countryside” since it encompasses all that is truly great about the countryside. The Fair is also a major fund raiser for many locally based and national charities as it distributes all profits. Long may it continue.

Paul Walkden
Steward

Chris Webb lived in Frampton for many years which is how the following poem came about. He says "it will always hold a special place in my heart".

A Grand Day Out
(At Frampton Country Fair)
Written and reproduced by kind permission of the author Chris Webb
(Copyright owner)

The early sun chases pearly dew; the village stirs – serene.
Fluffy bobs and downy tails complete the classic scene.
The splendid Manor house resides ‘midst busy willing hands
Which add the final touches that a day like this demands.

New-builds (nearby), in smokeless zones, boast en-suite habitats,
Hands-free phones and fleet-lease cars supplied by fatter cats.
Mildred waits by curtain pulled, a grand day out in store,
And Grandma’s chance to spoil the kids….she’d dare not wish for more.

“For your delight!” the harsh PA booms out the day’s events,
Resounding round the craft marquees, first aid, and ice cream tents.
Bales of hay and children form the show-ring centre stage,
There’s everything from ‘Best of Breed’ to “Guess the tractor’s age?”

Amidst the throng of sturdy shoes, old friends shake callused hands,
And voice concerns on subsidies for non-productive lands…
Keen to judge the latest trends in farm machinery,
And repeat fond tales of those bygone days now consigned to memory.

Sheepdogs, Shires, and Birds of Prey display instinctive skills,
And Pony Club young riders give their parents many thrills.
The sights and sounds and fast food smells lend fairground atmosphere,
And the commentator’s slight ‘faux pas’ was bound to raise a cheer.

Today’s great show is all about the country at its best,
So proudly staged by rural folk with vested interest.
The heart and soul of country life displayed so vividly
To educate and entertain the ‘urban’ family.

In Mildred’s hand an irresistible country recipe.
The homeward trip should get her there, she hopes, in time for tea.
She pats the cchildren’s heads and says, “They’ve had fun without a doubt”,
“And thank you, so have I my dears…..it’s been a Grand Day Out!”

“Tales of the Frampton Country Fair - The First 25 Years” 

A book of memories and anecdotes of many of those involved in the first 25 years of the Frampton Country Fair is being produced by Caroline Ractliffe (Fair Secretary 1992-2000) in collaboration with those involved past and present. Caroline will contact many of those who have been involved with the Fair to record their memories. If you feel you have some special tales to tell, Caroline would be delighted to hear from you by email caroline@bowlofbeauty.co.uk or mobile telephone: 07770 450321.