By Isle of Wight Observer
Wolverton Manor Garden Fair saw another record-breaking year, with manor owners, Jane and Mark Patterson, opening their gates to a huge turnout of more than 7,800 people queuing from the get-go to see the amazing craft and garden stalls, delicious refreshments and outstanding entertainment.
This year marked the 23rd show, with profits donated to the fair’s major beneficiary, Age UK Isle of Wight, and smaller donations going to other local Island charities. Wolverton continues to be the Island’s largest traditional garden fair, and there was plenty to see and do across the weekend. There were more than 190 exhibitors including Island and mainland nurseries, gardenalia, art & craft and local produce.
The entertainment included Elizabethan dancing and traditional cooking demonstrations with Passamezzo, classic car, military vehicle and engine displays, hand and chainsaw wood carving, a farmers’ market and food trucks, vintage amusements, ‘have a go’ archery and kayaking around the moat.
Animal lovers had a great time, enjoying dog agility displays and a fun dog-show from Barking Mad, West Wight Alpacas and flying displays from Haven Falconry. There were Magic Moments and Punch & Judy from Randini, live music from Last Orders and lots more to see and do over both days.
Jane commented on the success of the fair: “We had an exceptional weekend at Wolverton, attended by record numbers of people over two sunny days. The organisation was carried out without problems, thanks to the scouts and the Age UK IW volunteers.
Stall holders, particularly plant nurseries, did excellent trade. The Elizabethan performances were very popular and the event ended with Last Orders Irish band playing on the terrace.
“The IW Observer’s coverage of the show is much appreciated. I had a lovely weekend.”
The fair this year was kindly sponsored by Island businesses Red Funnel, Hose Rhodes Dickson, NFU Mutual, Matrix Create, the IW AONB and the IW Observer.
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