Street fair draws the crowds yet again

COMMUNITY spirit was alive and kicking at the twice yearly Cliff Lane Street Fair in Ipswich.Morris dancing, majorette displays and side shows formed part of the grand evening's entertainment.

By Amanda Cresswell,

Pictures: LUCY TAYLOR

amanda.cresswell@eveningstar.co.uk

COMMUNITY spirit was alive and kicking at the twice yearly Cliff Lane street fair in Ipswich.

Morris dancing, majorette displays and sideshows formed part of the grand evening's entertainment.

Scores of families braved the chilly weather to attend the fair, which has become a major attraction in the town.

Organiser George Debman, of Debman Family Butchers, said: "It is the only street fair in Ipswich and as long as we have the support of the local community and businesses we will continue to do it.

"People are always asking when the next fair will be? What people like about it is that they bump into people they haven't seen in ages. It is a big community event.

"But it was a bit awkward this time as is the second street event inside a month because of the Queen's jubilee."

Shops on the parade were open for the occasion which counted charity stalls, a hog roast, hot dog stall, a police exhibition, inflatable slides and a children's carousel among the attractions.

Most of the money raised will go to the Salvation Army. In addition there were charity stalls including the Ipswich Blind Society, Ipswich and District Kidney Association and the Ipswich Lioness club.

Clare Cronin, 32, of Fletcher Road, at the fair, said: "It is a good for the area and the kids love it."

Derek Burch, 53, of Severn Road, attended with his daughter Rebecca, eight. "It has a good friendly atmosphere. Everybody enjoys it," he said.