Thousands of people descended on part of Wellington as the town took a step into the past for a midsummer fair.

The event held on Saturday was inspired by historic June fairs which were being held in the town as far back as the 13th century. They also reflected the town’s annual jubilee celebrations of the 1770s.

The event, which has been held for four years, centred around the Market Square, All Saints’ Church and market hall.

Rob Francis, of the organising group Wellington H2A (Heritage and Arts Alive), said: “This is the busiest year we have had.

“There were about 40 stalls, which is more than we have had before, in the churchyard of All Saints Parish Church. It included local food and crafts as well as community groups.”

He said they had had good feedback from visitors.

Church

There was also entertainment, including: Jack the Jester and his Fire Show, Stafford Morris Men, Wrekin View School Choir, Odd Socks Folk Band and Wellington Brass Band.

Mr Francis said: “It was all about celebrating the history of the town and the food, crafts and music which make it distinctive.”

He estimated about 5,000 people, some from as far as London, had passed through the event. It was financially supported by Wellington Town Council, Wellington Market Company and Wellington Civic Society.

Mr Francis said they were also grateful to the church for hosting the fair.

He said: “We are very grateful to the main sponsors of the event are Wellington Market Company and Wellington Town Council, who make the fair possible. “Above all, we are indebted to All Saints’ Church for opening up their church and grounds for the event, and for all their hard work in making it a success.”

The event was introduced by a town crier. There was also a procession at 1pm.

June fairs were taking place in Wellington at least as far back as the 13th century, when the Market Charter of 1244 sanctioned the holding of a fair.

By Lisa Rowley