This year, instead of holding our usual Summer Fair at the Spires, Cherry Lodge’s fundraisers decided to try something a bit different. There would still be a fair but it would have a new focus and a new name – the Cherry Lodge Arts and Crafts Fair. It would also be at a new summer venue – St James Church in East Barnet Road, New Barnet – and be held on a Saturday, 18th June 2016.
These changes made for a very cohesive fair, with the emphasis this year on artistic and practical activities. There was an artist painting portraits and a stall selling paintings by a talented group of local painters from Palmers Green. Younger children were kept well entertained not only by Winnie the Pooh but also by a colouring the butterfly competition. Older children produced some beautiful results when given the opportunity to paint on silk. Also new this year was a vintage stall, with some very attractive and interesting items donated before the event to raise money for Cherry Lodge. There was also a professional valuer on hand to look at antiques and collectables brought to the fair.
Entertainment was provided by youngsters from Danegrove School, who started the proceedings off with some very enjoyable singing. They were followed in the afternoon by the Cherry Lodge Singers, whose new repertoire includes a good selection of songs from the shows.
The summer cafe was a popular focal point and did a roaring trade. Two therapies – Indian head massage and reflexology – were on offer in a separate room. There was also a plant stall, situated outside the entrance to the church, which was an attraction in itself and proved very popular indeed.
Many thanks to the large numbers of helpers who made this another successful event and to all those who took the trouble of coming to St James to spend their money.
Click on the small images below to see larger, complete photographs.
