Samarès Manor promises "bigger and better" country fair

Monday 27 August 2018

Old fashioned rides, sand art, Morris Dancers, artisanal goods and fro-yo are just a few of the many elements packed into this year's "bigger and better" Samarès Manor country fair, which opens today.

The gates will be open from 10:00 to 17:00 for the event that aims to celebrate local Jersey traditions.

Caryl Kemp, the Managing Director, said that they have grown the size of the kids' playzone, which will include an old fashioned carousel, rides and games, as well as hopscotch and target shooting. 

In total there will be over 35 stallholders, including charities and artisans selling Genuine Jersey products and crafts, on the grounds. "It's going to be much busier," said Ms Kemp.

Pictured: There will be old-fashioned rides for the kids to jump on. (Jooj Du Q)

The event has also included more "foodie" stalls, with an offering for kids. There will be ‘Food Village’ featuring Pizza Projekt, Yogolicious and Beresford Street Kitchen among others. 

Visitors will also be able to observe and take part in traditional activities such as apple crushing, corn threshing, and bread making.

The St. Helier Morris Men will be in the gardens to provide some entertainment. An acoustic guitarist, a sand art artist and story tellers will also be around.

Pictured: Visitors will be able to take part in traditional activities such as apple crushing, corn threshing, and bread making. (Jooj Du Q)

Ms Kemp said: "We have been holding the country fair for many years but this year it is bigger and better. It's packed with things to do from 10:00 to 17:00."

While the main goal of the fair is for everyone to have fun, it also has charitable endeavours. The money collected from the pitch fees will go to Eyecan, a charity that islanders of all ages with sight impairment.

As part of the fair, the gardens and the manor will be open to visitors. Ms Kemp encourages people to come down and sign up for memberships. Entry for the fair will cost £9.75 for adults, £5,50 for children between 13 and 18, and under 12s will be able to go in free of charge.