A Summer Fair was held in Newport on Sunday to celebrate the transfer of Victoria Recreation Ground and Pavilion from the Isle of Wight Council to Newport Parish Council.
The facility off Wilver Road near Carisbrooke has been secured as a community facility for the next 99 years thanks to the efforts of the local Parish council.
Despite the miserable British weather, a variety of entertainment took place including egg and spoon races and a small carnival parade. The Tea ‘N’ Biscuit Boys stoically kept spirits high out on the Recreation Ground, while inside the Pavilion Huxley performed a mesmerising magic show.
Barry Price kindly displayed a huge selection of historic photographs as well as bringing along some vintage vehicles.
On the field Newport Scouts held a demonstration of some of their activities and Newport Carnival Committee offered a tombola and raffle as well as other games.
The highlight of the event was the cutting of the ribbon by Neil Shutler, a life member of the cricket club.
Chairman of Newport PC, Cllr Julie Jones-Evans said:
“It was a great way to begin our relationship with the NVSSC, Newport Cricket Club and the wider community, including the scouts. This whole facility is entering a new phase and has great potential for a sporting and community hub.
Article continues below this advertisement “We should be proud of securing the Recreation Ground for the next 99 years.
“It was a great honour to have my grandfather Neil Shutler of Newport Cricket Club who has been using the Rec for 92 years to cut the ribbon and mark the occasion”.
It is hoped the event will become an annual celebration and will be an excellent opportunity for Newport community organisations to come together.
