VILLAGERS turned out in force to support a Rossendale village fete which, for once, didn't live up to its name.

For the past five years the village of Water has held a fete, thanks to an idea by committee member Diane Myrtle - but every year the heavens have opened.

This year she was delighted to announce: "It stayed fine and we even saw some sun. We were very well supported by people from the village and also those using a free bus which was provided from Waterfoot."

A baby show was judged by former Mayor Coun Mollie Disley and villagers got together to organise a wide range of stalls on the playground of Water Primary School and the car park of the Commercial pub. It is hoped the event raised £1,000, which will go to the school, a Christmas party for children at the Commercial, Whitewell Bottom Youth and Community Centre and Lumb Baptist Mother and Toddlers Group.

Bob Edwards is pictured joining in the face-painting fun with, from left, Keely, Amber and Dean Cropper.

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