Budding young circus performers enjoyed picking up tips from the experts at the Staplefield Village Fete and Car Show on Bank Holiday Monday last month.

The workshops, run by Circuswurx were a new attraction at the popular annual event, held on the village green.

Opened by Mid Sussex MP the Rt. Hon. Sir Nicholas Soames, the traditional event offered the usual popular stalls and sideshows including fairground rides, Pimms and strawberries, a barbeque and beer tent, traction engines and the classic and vintage car show.

Children from St Mark’s School delighted the crowds with Maypole dancing, while the Magog Ladies Morris Dancers entertained onlookers in the Victory Inn car park.

The ever popular Punch and Judy Show went down a treat with families, while dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes paraded in the ring for the annual dog show, sponsored by Cuckfield Pet and Country Store. With categories including Bad Hair Day, Golden Oldie and My Dog’s Got Talent, there was a chance for every pet to win a prize!

Organiser Maggie Chamberlain said the event had been a great success: “We had spent the morning in trepidation, wondering if it would rain, but we were lucky. The weather stayed dry and the crowds turned out!” She added that the village was delighted to welcome the return of Elvis impersonator ‘Philvis’, and dog show compere Clive Panto, who travelled from his home in France to take part. “We are already building this year’s experience and searching for new attractions for next year,” added Maggie.

All money raised from the event is donated to St Mark’s Church and the Village Hall, with a donation to St Mark’s School, and other worthy causes.