Woodfair a great success and we owe it all to you!

The 3rd Cranborne Chase Woodfair went off without a hitch at the Larmer Tree Gardens last weekend. Over six thousand people visited the site to be amazed at the quality of the woodcraft on demonstration and display as well as to learn more about this fascinating landscape that is so often taken for granted.

As 2011 celebrates the 30th anniversary for our local Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty the event also celebrated our local history and landscape. Cranborne Chase is synonymous around the world although few people today actually know why. It is because following the Norman invasion this area was set up and became the last royal hunting ground and chase law meant many harsh lifestyle changes for the local Saxon people residing in this area. Regia Anglorum a specialised re-enactment team portrayed this lifestyle to great effect and to the enjoyment of the crowds attending the event.

Local businesses and food providers were pleased with the public interest with the overall 'feel' being country, family, wood, enterprise and very child friendly. Children climbed trees and enjoyed theatre shows, climbed straw bales and enjoyed arena displays of falconry and horsemanship. Whilst big boy machinery displays worked alongside speed chainsaw carvers and pole lathe turners turned bespoke furniture and willow weavers wove baskets and chairs. A good day out for all the family, across all generations.

Photos to be credited to Andrew Chorley