FOR the past two years, Cowpe Country Fair was a victim of the weather, so the date was changed.

And the result: yet more rain.

But despite the non-stop morning deluge, the people of Rossendale rallied round with many turning up to support the village event.

Secretary Debbie Kempson said: "It is disappointing but we didn't change the date just because of the weather but also because the fair was clashing with other events.

"The switch has worked to some extent especially in the fell race which attracted many more entries this year because it no longer clashed with other races.'' The junior soccer was also a big success, with teams coming from a wide area. In the under-eights tournament, Knuzden Juniors beat Brun Lea of Burnley while the under-nines final was contested by teams from Radcliffe and Bury.

Prizes were presented by the Mayor and Mayoress of Rossendale, councillors Lawrence and June Forshaw.

Debbie added: "Another aspect was the increased number of people using the free bus service. The police reported no problems at all with the traffic.''

The fair raises funds for various local charities.

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