Thousands take part in unique 44th Earth Fair
THOUSANDS of lucky islanders were able to be part of Vale Earth Fair’s 44th year as one of the only known festivals in Europe to go ahead this summer.
Organisers, volunteers, stallholders and artists were thrilled to put on a show and entertain revellers with live music, food, gifts and children’s activities.
Vale Earth Fair Collective member Yannic Bearder said about 800 people had turned up so far in the afternoon and with more than 1,500 tickets sold in advance and lots more people coming in the evening, they might have to turn people away.
‘We have a capacity for 3,000 people, so it could be that once we sell out of our allotted wristbands we’ll have to stop more people from coming in,’ he said.
‘It’s really that busy and it’s fantastic to see, as potentially one of the only festivals in the British Isles, in the UK and perhaps Europe, we’re extremely lucky, what with coronavirus and many countries still having to socially distance, to be able to be in this situation to invite people at all.’
He added even the weather had gone in their favour.
‘The sun came out just before we started and it’s been absolutely beautiful,’ he said.
‘Everybody is really happy from what I can see, we haven’t had time to stop – it’s fantastic.’
Fellow collective member Jade Kershaw agreed that it was the perfect day.
‘There’s still lots to come and we’re thrilled to be able to see everybody and be part of a normal event,’ she said.
‘We’ve been getting a lot of publicity worldwide and, for the first time, we’re live streaming the event too, which, though a reaction to Covid, was definitely a good decision as well.
‘Our friends in Jersey, France and the UK and elsewhere can still tune into the festival, even if they can’t be here and I think it’s great that Guernsey can showcase its talent this way – it’s pretty special to say that not even Covid can stop us.’
Silver and Stones jewellery stall owner Dave Morgan said he had been coming to set up since 1995 and was pleased to see it continue.
‘I almost feel guilty about being here as one of the only places in Europe to do this,’ he said.
‘There’s definitely disadvantages to living on an island, but this isn’t one.’
