The origins of the gala can be traced back to 1892 and this year’s offering was blessed with warm sunny weather, ideal to entice people to North Mundham Playing Field. The gala was opened by Paul and Gwen Chivers, who have been involved in the village over many years. They arrived in a vintage car, accompanied by TS Sturdy Nautical Training Corps and the princes and princesses from North Mundham Primary School. George’s Regis Jazz Band provided music throughout the afternoon and this matched the upbeat mood at the gala. There were many stalls and events to cater for all tastes and interests, and the dog show, which had many entries on the day, received loud cheers from the spectators as the proud winners received their rosettes. Linda Fitzmaurice, press officer, said: “The highlight of the day must surely be the entries in the different competition categories. These could be viewed in the marquee. “There were locally-grown fruit and vegetables, flowers and, yes, even the best weed. “The categories for flower arranging, handicrafts, cooking and baking, and photography showed off the local talent in the villages. We are proud of the talents on display.” The winners of various trophies and shields were announced at the end of the day, followed by the raffle, with good quality prizes donated by local people and businesses. Even as the end of the gala was announced, the weather was still beautiful and many people were still around, chatting and enjoying the lingering ambience. The annual meeting will be held at North Mundham Village Hall on October 14 at 7.30pm and next year’s gala will be held on Saturday, July 15. Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live. Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on. 1 – Make our website your homepage at www.chichester.co.uk 2 – Like our Facebook page at Chichester Observer Facebook 3 – Follow us on Twitter at @Chiobserver 4 – Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here. And do share with your family and friends – so they don’t miss out! The Chichester Observer – always the first with your local news. Be part of it.
