A MAJOR event celebrating Chagford's significance in mining history is soon to take place in the town. Chagford Parish Church and community groups have joined together to organise a Tinners' Fair to be held in and around Chagford on Saturday, May 3 from 10am to 3.30pm. The theme of a Tinners' Fair derives from Chagford being one of the old Stannary towns which were centres of tin mining from the Middle Ages right up to the 20th century. Chagford was granted a Royal Charter by Edward I in 1305. To symbolise the connection with tin mining, it is hoped a display of tin men and other tin sculptures will be displayed at various vantage points around the town, with a construction at the entrance of Chagford. Chairman of the organising committee, Dr Colin Barnes, said: 'We are looking to provide a major event in Chagford this spring to coincide with the bank holiday. We want something which will be fun for local residents and also an attraction for friends, families and visitors. 'Both the parish church and the local community — including local businesses — have combined to organise and support this event. 'We hope that not only will it be the biggest and best Chagford has seen for a long time but that it will increase the attraction of Chagford as a tourist destination. 'We are hoping to get a lot of visitors from within Devon and beyond.' The attractions around the town will include a Mummers' play, specially written by local architect Robert Harris, morris dancers, music in the church with trips to the top of the tower, a skateboard display in Jubilee Park, a hog roast, skittles, and stalls from community-based organisations and local charities, with many participants in period costume.