Strictly Come Dancing judge and former prima ballerina Darcey Bussell will open the popular Wimbledon Village Fair this month, with more attractions than ever before.
With favourites including the horse and dog shows, food from around the globe and a few surprises, it promises to be a fun-packed family day out.
The event welcomed 30,000 visitors last year and is hoping to top that this time.
Becky Middleton spoke to organiser Wimbledon Guild’s chief executive Wendy Pridmore, below, about the plans.
Becky Middleton: What can people expect from the fair this year?
Wendy Pridmore: It is going to be the usual massive fun-packed event with a lot going on.
We have got some new attractions - Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell will open the fair, MasterChef finalist Paul Bogle will be doing a cooking demonstration and there will be laser tag and zorbing for the children.
BM: What makes it different this time?
WP: There will be 200 stalls - more stalls than ever before. We are quite selective, there’s a lot of competition, so we know it will be good quality and a wide range.
Miss Ballooniverse will be there, and children from Stagecoach Theatre Arts School, Wimbledon Theatre and local school’s choirs will be on stage.
BM: What do you think makes it so popular year after year?
WP: There is something for everyone.
There are things to do for children, adults and the food village is always fantastic.
It is a brilliant day.
Last year was the biggest ever. We are hoping the weather will be good again.
BM: How much money was raised for the Wimbledon Guild last year, and what was the money spent on?
WP: Last year we raised £40,000 which was spent on running services. We have 90 counsellors who often provide free services to families and young people. Our building in Worple Road is a base for a number of charities. It is very expensive to provide these services.
The Wimbledon Guild is looking for volunteers to help out on the day.
Visit the website www.wimbledonguild.co.uk to get in touch. Text Strictly and win to 78866 for a chance for your child to meet Darcey Bussell.
Text charged at standard network rate.
Draw will be made on Thursday, June 25.
Wimbledon Village Fair, Wimbledon Common; Saturday, June 27, 10.30am to 5.30pm; free entry.
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