I WAS very pleased to take part in the opening of Goose Fair despite all the rain and was glad to see the crowds on Wednesday, I hope all enjoying the day.
On behalf of the town and the visitors my thanks go to all the members of the Showman's Guild, all those who work on the fairground, the stallholders and traders, all the charity workers without whom there would not be a traditional fair.
The cattle market was very busy and it was good to see so many geese this year.
Sadly, the rain means that the fields used for the 'Park and Ride' had become water-logged, so they had to be closed, the first time for several years.
I would like to say a big thank you to all those who help on the day, the RSPCA, St John Ambulance, Raynet (radar control), the police and special's, West County Ambulance, the environmental officer from West Devon Borough Council, the town council staff, especially Les Bennett and the 'boys' who start early and go on till late, and a really big thank you to the staff of Fosca and Biffa who by 9am the next day had Tavistock back in order with all the rubbish firmly out of sight, a great team effort.
We now start preparing again for next year. As the years go by the fair does change. I am for keeping traditions. I would be sad for my grandchildren if Goose Fair was removed from the calendar of events in Tavistock.
Judith A Williams
Mayor of Tavistock
ON my way to work the morning after Goose Fair Day I passed Stuart Cole, our hardworking street cleaner. He had started work that morning at 2am and he was singing away at the top of his voice dealing with the piles of wet leaves and debris left behind from the previous day.
He does a wonderful job, in all weathers and always with a cheerful word for passers by. If anyone deserves a medal that man does.
A grateful Tavistokian
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