Column of Fairford and Lechlade news by Chris Roberts MBE

1. COME and visit Fairford’s finest firefighters between 10am and 3pm on Saturday, May 10 at the fire station on Hatherop Road, Fairford.

Throughout the day there’ll be a variety of family-friendly activities and games, opportunities to try the kit on, various food and drinks on offer and potentially a competition or two to get involved with.

Enjoy your Saturday doing something with your local community, friends and family and – quite possibly – the nicest fire and rescue crew Gloucestershire has to offer.

The fun is never spoiled by a spot of rain so, regardless of what the British weather throws at everyone on the day, there’ll be marquees and a lovely warm fire station to keep you all dry and entertained.

Parking is plentiful and unrestricted near the station gates, but not on the station car park, as that will be filled with some really cool stuff on the day.

Fairford’s finest hope to see you lovely lot at the open day – whether you’re interested in what the firefighters do, want something to do with the kids or just fancy a brew with the crew, come on round.

And yes, new recruits are currently needed, so why not pop along and have a go at being a firefighter and see if it is for you.

Unlike full-time firefighters, retained firefighters are on-call paid volunteers who respond to emergencies, but are not based at a fire station full-time.

Many retained firefighters also have other occupations and respond to emergencies from their homes or workplaces.

They are highly valued by the local community for their commitment to providing emergency services.

2. Celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Sponsored by Royal International Air Tattoo and Fairford Steam Show.

Fairford Cricket Club, Fairford Town Council and The Royal British Legion have got together to organise a party to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Come along to Fairford Cricket Club GL7 4JJ on Saturday, May 10, from 7pm for an outside cinema; a host of classic vehicles; a barbeque and a pay bar. Period/fancy dress encouraged!

On Sunday, May 11, from 1pm to 6pm, Fairford Cricket Club grounds will be open again for a picnic in the park. Bring your own picnic and chairs, but not alcohol, as there is a pay bar available. Afternoon tea party for seniors courtesy of Working 4 Wellbeing.

There’ll also be history exhibits from Fairford History Society, RAF Welford Historical Society and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission; Fairford WI rations display; vintage military vehicles; RAFP military working dogs; steam exhibits; old time farming by COEPS; Fairford Primary School choir; the Gary Bell band playing 1940’s classics; Chedworth Silver Band playing wartime classics like White Cliffs of Dover.

Burgers available to purchase plus free hot dogs courtesy of the British American Committee.

Free admission to pop along and enjoy the celebrations.

More information from Fairford Town Council: 01285 712344.

3. The Friends of Fairford and Lechlade Communities presents a Charity Craft Fair on Sunday, May 11 from 10am-2pm in Fairford Community Centre. Stalls cost £20 each. For more details or to book a stall, contact Val Harvey: 07540 798226, transport@friendsoffairford.org.uk

4. The Friends of Fairford and Lechlade Communities are bringing their charity shop to Fairford via a pop-up charity shop. Quality items for sale! Ladies, men’s and children’s clothing, shoes, books, household items, as well as vinyl, jewellery and craft pieces. All the stock is donated so, by buying pre-loved, you are helping the planet, as well as your pocket! On Wednesday, May 14 from 10am-2pm in the Barker Room, Fairford Community Centre. Cash and card payments accepted. More information from Agneta: 01285 707300, admin@friendsoffairford.org.uk or visit www.friendsoffairford.org.uk

5. The Palmer Hall Cinema’s next film is Better Man on Wednesday, May 14 in the Palmer Hall. The film tells how the singer, Robbie Williams felt wild as a child and, to prove to everyone that he was capable of achieving a lot, he immersed himself in music. Williams is portrayed as a monkey in the film because the singer repeatedly referred to himself as a performing monkey. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Admission is £3.50 to include tea and biscuits. A glass of wine is £3. More information about the Palmer Hall from www.thepalmerhall.org

6. The next meeting of Fairford History Society will be at 7.30pm on Thursday, May 15 in Fairford Community Centre. Edwin Cuss will talk about Along the Coln through Fairford. This is the meeting that was postponed from February. FHS membership is £5 per year and visitors to meetings are charged £3. New members and visitors welcome. More information from Alison: 01285 711768, enquiry@fairfordhistory.org.uk or visit www.fairfordhistory.org.uk

7. The Arts Society Upper Thames is presenting a talk entitled Inspired by Stonehenge, with Julian Richards on Thursday, May 8 at 2pm in Lechlade Memorial Hall. Stonehenge is the most celebrated and sophisticated prehistoric stone circle in the British Isles. The talk explores how, over the last two centuries, this iconic structure has inspired painters, potters and poets. Blake, Turner and Constable are amongst those who have been drawn to this magnificent ruin, resulting in a diverse catalogue of images and impressions. Pre-book at info@tasupperthames.org.uk and pay £7.50 cash on the door.

8. The next meeting of the Mothers’ Union is on Wednesday, May 14 at 2pm in Lechlade Memorial Hall. The speaker will be Clare Brignall talking about textiles and the effect on the environment.

9. St Mary’s Church doors will be open to the Fairford community on Saturday, May 10 from 10am to 4pm for a day of welcome and education. Representatives from all aspects of church life (flowers, choir, bell ringing, Eco-Church etc) will be available in the church for visitors to find out more or have-a-go at something. Refreshments will be served and there’ll be guided tours of the church. Volunteers are needed to help with refreshments, fetching-and-carrying and meeting-and-greeting visitors at the door. If you are interested, please get in touch with the parish office on 01285 712611.