A WET start didn’t dampen spirits at a school fair in Chipping Sodbury on Saturday.

Despite some early downpours, the St John’s Mead Primary School annual fundraiser went ahead as planned and ended up being basked in sunshine as youngsters enjoyed pony rides, facepainting, welly wanging, the Gazette’s bouncy castle and experiences in a Toylander mini Landrover courtesy of former teacher and town councillor Paul Robins.

Hobbs House Bakery and Granny’s Secret held food stalls, selling items at reduced prices, and there was a coconut shy, barbecue, wine and water stall, cakes, plants and books on sale, tombolas, crafts and a bar.

Arena events included Westerleigh Brass Band, REDDS dance school, a pet pooch dog show and demonstrations by Puma Tai Kwon-do.

The fair, organised by St John’s Mead PTA, raised around £3,000 for the school.

Committee member and organiser Vicky Wingrove said: “We did really well, especially considering it started out soaking wet.

“Everyone really pulled together. The pony rides went down a storm and lots of traders said they would come back next year and support us.

“We are really pleased as it raised a lot of money for the school.”