TORRENTIAL rain was not enough to dampen community spirit when hundreds turned out for a popular annual fair.

Now in its 43rd year, the Sedgefield Medieval Fair sees the County Durham town transported back in time, with visitors treated to a host of traditional countryside pursuits.

This year, however, Sedgefield Community Association feared much of its planned entertainment may have to be cancelled due to a heavy rain yesterday morning (Saturday, May 18).

The rain eased off by lunchtime but it was too late for the big parade – a popular tradition that sees the May Queen lead a procession of youngsters in fancy dress onto the Green.

Instead, the children from Sedgefield Primary School and Sedgefield Hardwick Primary School showcased their costumes indoors.

The May Queen, eight-year-old Lucy Edwards, was also presented with flowers and a special cup inside Sedgefield Primary School, before enjoying a ride in a horse drawn carriage.

Lucy said it had been a “really fun day” despite the rain, adding: “I have been looking forward to this for ages.”

When the skies brightened more and more people turned out, they enjoyed a variety of entertainment, including medieval combat, country dancing, traditional fairground rides, tug-of-war competitions and craft stalls.

Sedgefield councillor John Robinson said: “The community spirit in Sedgefield is wonderful. It will take more than a bit of rain to stop people supporting the fair.”