Last updated at 15:06, Monday, 19 July 2010

RAIN failed to dampen spirits at the Coniston Country Fair.

Visitors donned their waterproofs and wellies at yesterday’s fair, which featured gun shows, terrier racing and the six-mile fell race up Coniston Old Man.

Adam Henson, resident farmer on BBC’s Countryfile, paid a visit to the fair while filming for a programme due to air on August 1.

Mr Henson, who had been visiting a Herdwick sheep farmer near Coniston, said: “It’s a shame about the rain, but we wouldn’t have the lakes if it didn’t rain. We’ve been watching some of the judging, the event’s really vibrant despite the weather.”

An array of exhibitors and trade stalls were lined up along the shore of Coniston Water, including local painters, Lakes produce such as jams and cheese and homemade farmer’s crooks. Tim Holt was the fair’s announcer, directing the crowds to events within the grounds of Coniston Hall.

Mr Holt, of Kirkby Lonsdale, said: “The rain is desperately needed.

“Windermere has risen by 14 inches in the last two days, which is pretty good, but nevertheless we still have the hosepipe ban.

“Everyone has turned up apart from the crowds of visitors we would normally expect. Usually we get around 3,000 to 4,000 people here, but because of the weather they’ve not come this year.

“That’s always the snag with outside events, but it has not dampened the enthusiasm and spirits of all the organising team and the people who have come along.”

An RAF Sea King helicopter landed on the fields to allow visitors to take a closer look, and children were able to take part in an egg throwing competition and a pet show. Scores of runners took part in the fell race, although organisers said they did not expect any to beat the current record of 52 minutes because of the weather.

First published at 13:01, Monday, 19 July 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk