Preparations are under way for the 30th Braunston May Fayre

Villagers will uphold a popular tradition with the staging of the 30th Braunston May Fayre this year.

Preparations are under way for the event on May 6 which organisers hope will be bigger and better as they celebrate the special anniversary.

The event has become a key part of the Rutland events calendar, drawing hundreds of people into the village each year.

Committee member Chris Lovelock said: “Braunston has a community that loves to get together. The church is very strong and the two pubs in the village also bring people together.

“The fayre has so much to do in such a small space.

"This year is the 30th anniversary and it's already promising to be one of the best ever. We’re hoping to make it an even bigger event than last year when we had about 1,200 people join us in our fun and festivities."

The event sticks to traditional roots with a street market, fairground rides, family games, classic car displays, inflatables and a craft market.

A highlight of the day is always the crowing of the May Queen and dancing around the maypole, with youngsters in the village putting in hours of practice to perfect their routine.

The popular duck race will also return to the village stream and a dog agility course will be set up fore the first time this year.

Catering will be available ion the day to suit all tastes courtesy of the village pubs, burger vans and homemade sandwiches and cakes in the village hall.

A tombola and raffle also help to boot the fundraising, with proceeds from the event going to the village church, upkeep on the village hall and Dove Cottage Day Hospice. The centre in Ridlington provides respite care for people with cancer and other terminal illnesses.

The team have already lined up a few top prizes including a Fortnum and Mason hamper from James Kirk Estates, tea for two at The Ritz provided by Smith Eliot Financial Management, lunch for two at The George Hotel in Stamford, provided by James Sellick Estate Agents and a £100 cash prize, provided by Murray Estate Agents.

Anyone interested in booking a stall or car boot plot can email susan125081@aol.com