Castlethorpe Fete & Coronation Plans

Northampton Mercury 27 June 1952

CASTLETHORPE FETE ADDS £70 TO HALL FUND

In an all-out effort to provide Castlethorpe with new village hall, a committee consisting of representatives of almost every organisation in the village have raised £600 towards the project in the past three years. And another £70 will go into the kitty as a result of a fete held in the grounds of Castlethorpe Lodge, by permission of Mr. and Mrs. J. E, Whiting.
Mr. A. Cowley (chairman, village hall committee), introducing the opener, Captain L. G. Payne, of Newport Pagnell, said that in only the last 12 months the fund had shot up by £200. He was supported at the opening ceremony by Mrs. J. E. Whiting, Mrs. G. Whiting and Mrs. N. Sawbridge (secretary).
Winners of a fancy dress competition organised by the British Legion under the supervision of Mr. Jim Bavington, were: Up to five years, 1 Jane Bavington, 2 Peter Hart, 3 John Pittam; 6-10 years, 1 Grierson Gower, 2 L. Bates, 3 Dorothy Belton; 11-15 years, 1 Howard Foakes, 2 Michael Mullins, 3 Robin Hart.
Apart from the sideshow’s attractions included a cycle speedway match between boys of the village, and a rabbit show. A mime entitled “Too many cooks” was performed by the Women’s Institute and to round off the day there were 56 players at a whist drive.

As a trail period, Castlethorpe residents between 16 and 65 are to be asked to give 6d. a week towards Coronation celebrations. If they wish, pensioners can give a small donation, but this is optional.

After, a trial period the position will be reviewed. Any organisation in the village can add to the fund if they wish.

This was decided at a parish Council on Monday, when only 22 persons were present. In spite of this there was a keen and interesting discussion, Mr. H. Dolling presiding.

Celebrations will commence with a united service and it was agreed to ask Mr. and Mrs. J. Whiting, of Castlethorpe Lodge, if they will kindly allow the use of their grounds, filed and barn. The programme will include a fancy dress parade, prizes for best-decorated house, children’s sports, and a sit-down tea for everyone. In the evening there will be a social of all local talent, ending the day with a good fireworks display.

All present agreed to constitute the committee with the hope that others would come along. Mr. Harold Cook was elected Chairman, Mrs. Pateman Secretary, and Mr. R. West, Treasurer.

Mr. Dolling was thanked for presiding. The next meeting will be held on 17th September.