CALLINGTON will be a hive of activity next month, as preparations are well on the way for one of Cornwall's biggest annual events — the Honey Fair. Crowds of people will take to the streets on Wednesday, October 1, for the annual fair which is set to boast live music, a street market, competitions, bee-related activities and a fun fair, among many other things. The fair, which has been taking place annually since 1978 when a local businessman resurrected the event last seen in the 1940s, actually has origins from the 13th Century. In 1267, Henry III granted a number of market charters to help fund the re-building of Westminster Abbey. This permitted the holding of weekly Wednesday markets and an annual fair. More than 25 years later, the Lord of the Manor of Callington confirmed the charter. The early markets died down after a few years and it was not until the 19th century that honey fairs became established in the local area. Many towns in the South East of Cornwall held such fairs but it is said that Callington is the only town that retained the name 'Honey Fair'. The Honey Fair is now run by the Callington Lions' Club, and hundreds of people descend on the town to take part. Lions president Andy Burnard said: 'As current president of Callington Lions, I am very proud of everyone in our town, who, year on year, have worked so hard to make the Honey Fair an extremely important event in our town's calendar. 'The opportunity is given to Callington primary and all eleven feeder primary schools to take part in the art competition where normally over 1,000 paintings are displayed in the town hall. Also the town hall will again be hosting bee keeping and honey competitions as well as very impressive model displays and teas with bees! 'In the town the judges will be deciding the winners of the shop window displays which for this year the theme is "Inventions that changed the world". 'As well as an extensive street market, this year live music will be put on in the newly extended layout, courtesy of the Bulls Head pub during the day. 'The churches will also be participating with food and other displays and Rowlands Funfair have again got an impressive line up of rides in the New Road Car Park. 'So generally it will be a fun-filled, free entry day out for the whole family, not to be missed and free parking in the Saltash Road Recreation Field. We look forward to seeing everyone there!' The Cornwall Bee Keepers' Association will have information on hand throughout the day as well as live bees and honey produce. The event will take place in the town from 10am to 7pm.