The Yetminster Fair is back for 2021!

The Yetminster Fair is one of the oldest fairs in Wessex and has been running almost continuously since the 13th century under a charter granted in the 13th century by Simon de Ghent, Bishop of Salisbury, for a fair ‘to be held in his manor of Yetminster’.

Traditionally held on Eve of St Andrew’s Day, the charter also included the right to hold a market on Mondays in his manor so locals could sell their products, cattle and crafts.

The format and date for the fair has changed much over time.
Originally fair day was held on November 30, St Andrew’s day, but by the 19th century a fair was held twice a year, in April and October. For many years the fair was located on Upbury Farm and boys from the village’s Boyle’s School, which was set up for local poor boys and endowed by Dorset scientist Robert Boyle, had the day off.

People came from far and wide and until 1947 livestock sales were a big attraction at the fair.
In 1896, to boost attendance, cheap rail tickets were issued and it was agreed that the 10.32am express train from Weymouth would stop at Yetminster so people could attend.

In more recent times, The Yetties, one of the country’s best known folk groups, who hail from Yetminster, have attracted big crowds for their annual performance. Yetminster Fair is now held annually after a year’s enforced hiatus and sees a change as the festivities move from the high street to Yetminster Community Sports Club grounds.

The challenges of parking and access and keeping attendees safe meant an alternative venue had to be found.
This new location has lots of space, making it possible to host many new attractions such as a dog show, a classic car display, a great range of stands and much more, including the opportunity to try your hand at croquet.

If you are’t feeling too energetic there will be cream teas aplenty and the sports club bar will be open so you can sit back and enjoy what will hopefully be a sunny day. Sherborne’s Abbey 104 will be hosting musical entertainment and dancing for all tastes.

Yetminster Fair this year took place on August 14 at the Yetminster Community Sports Ground. It was a great day out with all the money raised on the day donated to a range of local causes.

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