The 17th annual Aldridge Fayre took place yesterday (Saturday), and, despite intermittent showers, the charity event proved a roaring success.

Crowds were treated to a wide variety of entertainment, including tai chi and judo demonstrations, a display of precision marching by the Walsall Royal Marines Cadets and a performance from the Jo Leigh School of Dance.

The exotic sights and sounds of the Khalgani Belly Dance group were complimented by the more traditional and equally as entertaining talents of the Cannock Chase Drum Corps and the Walsall Junior Coronets.

The highlight for many came in mid-afternoon with a military fly past from a Douglas Dakota C47 from the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The aircraft's three passes over the Fayre were accompanied by military music and drew huge cheers from the crowds.

The Fayre was opened by the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Gary Perry, and he was also on hand to present cheques to the three main beneficiaries of the event - the Marie Curie Trust, Walsall Arthritis Care and Walsall Arthritis Support Group.

Over 40 other charities took part in festivities at Anchor Meadow, and Cllr Perry was keen to praise the voluntary work of the Lions Club.

He said: "We do recognise the benefit we have from the many volunteers who help with charities and organise events such as this for our community."

Lions Club President, Clyde Redfern, was delighted with the success of the event: "Each year we seem to build on our previous experience."

"We have a community event for the people of Aldridge and the surroundings areas which not only helps the many charities who attend the Fayre but gives a great day of entertainment for the visitors."