Saturday presented a bit of a dilemma to dog lovers in West London. There were two outdoor events where the fabulous weather could be really appreciated. On the one hand, there was the Barnes Fair – an amazing array of upmarket stalls organised around the pretty village pond and just a stone’s throw from lots of trees and open space on Putney Common. On the other hand, there was the St Margaret’s Fair – nestled between the riverside delights of Twickenham and Richmond.
We decided on St Margaret’s Fair and made our way across Moor Mead where plenty of space remained for walking and running. The fair had a lot on offer – displays of karate and football, non-stop bands (many of them local) on various stages – as well as all the traditional stalls such as swinging boat chairs, coconut shy and hook a duck. There were giant inflatables and fair ground rides. In the hot summer sun, the Pimm’s stall and tea tent did a roaring trade. Radio West Middlesex provided a commentary throughout the day.
But tucked away in a shadier area under lots of trees was the dog show area on Little Moor Mead. This is an annual favourite (now in its sixth year) and lots of locals register their dogs under categories including Handsomest Hound, Most Beautiful Bitch, Waggiest Tail, Best Dressed/Fancy Dress, Nicest Coat, Cutest Puppy, Best Rescue Dog and Best Veteran.
All entrants were registered at 2pm (£4.50) and throughout the afternoon owners were interviewed while their dogs strut their stuff in front of the crowds and the judges (including celebrities CBeebies vet Doctor Scotty and newsround action man presenter Joe Tidy). There were lots to smiles and laughter (particularly at some of the incredible new combination breeds) and despite the heat, the dogs seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves too. And if that wasn’t enough, there were numerous stalls selling all manner of doggie (and cat) goods.
http://www.barnesfair.com/
http://www.stmargaretsfair.org/fair.html
