Thousands have a gander at Goose Fair attractions

THOUSANDS of people enjoyed the annual Goose Fair in Tavistock.

Stallholders reported roaring trade as the extravaganza got under way yesterday – despite dismal weather.

The ancient celebration boasted attractions for all the family, along with well over 200 stalls.

People flocked from all over the area to get in on the action.

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The Goosey Fair, as it is known locally, is one of only two of its kind in Britain, the other taking place in Nottingham.

It dates all the way back to the 12th Century and was originally the day farmers brought their Christmas geese to town to be sold.

Today, part of that tradition takes place at the Tavistock Livestock centre, where a number of birds are sold at auction.

At the main fair two geese to be found were at Tavistock Rotary Club's stand.

Children and adults alike could put in a small donation and try to guess the geese's combined weight. Whoever got the closest would win a prize.

"Over the years we have had a lot of different guesses," said Rotarian Robin Wilson.

"I think the lowest was a combined weight of six pounds.

"The highest guess was 104 kilograms. If that had been right, I would have been pretty scared of those geese."

Mr Wilson added that many local communities and organisations had stalls or booths at the fair, making it a welcome source of income for charitable work.

His fellow Rotarian, David Tout, added that the fair helped generate interest in the town.Something like this puts our town on the map," he said.

Selling flowers and various vegetables at one of the stalls was Karen Hill from Van der Hills Nurseries.

"We have been coming to this event for the last 30 odd years now," she said.

"We do various similar events all over the place, but for me this one is the best one-day fair in the country."

Meanwhile, an elderly salesman sporting a leather hat and a broad London accent told The Herald his tea towels were "West End" quality at "East End" prices.

Another stallholder was offering what he called "one-day only prices" before coming to his senses and adding: "Well, I know this market is only on for one day, but you know that is not what I mean."