Gallery
Days Gone By: Are you pictured in our gallery from the Co-op fete at Christchurch Park in 1978?
Children in costume as they put on a show at the Co-op fete. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
Christchurch Park has played host to many different events throughout the years from the classic car run to Ipswich music day, but one fondly remembered event hasn’t been seen on its grounds for 38 years.
Some of the rides on offer at the Co-op fete at Christchurch Park. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
The Co-op fete was a time for family and friends to gather at the Ipswich park to enjoy fun fair rides, winning gold fish and to watch dog competitions take place.
Children had the treat of pony rides. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
Organised by the Suffolk Co-operative and first held in 1934 at Chantry Park, this event became the replacement for something similar held in Alexandra Park from 1923 organised by the same society.
Children took centre stage at the event, performing for visitors. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
The fete was eventually moved to Christchurch Park which and continued to run for 46 years, bringing the fun fair, fireworks and family entertainment until 1980.
Service dogs showing off their training on an obstacle course. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
Do you have any fond memories from the Co-op fete whilst it was still going?
Dogs competed against each other in a show. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
To share your own pictures and memories with us, email our picture desk.
Morris dancers also took their opportunity to perform at Christchurch Park. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
One of the dogs taking part in an obstacle course. Picture: PAUL NIXON - Credit: PAUL NIXON / ARCHANT
