Oakham Food, Drink and Craft Fair at Rutland Showground attracted thousands of visitors

The gloomy weather didn’t stop people from attending a food, drink and craft fair on the holidays.
While the hot chocolate stand was in higher demand than the ice cream truck, the organizer of the Oakham Food, Drink and Craft Fair was pleased with the number of enthusiastic visitors.
The event ran from Saturday to Monday at the Rutland Showground with booths showcasing a range of food, drink and handmade items.
Carolyn Acton-Reed, organizer, said: “The weather was not the best for an August holiday.
“Saturday was great weather, but on Sunday and Monday people came with UGG hats and boots like it was November.
“Saturday was a quick turnaround as we played a Queen tribute band which was amazing.
“The crowds had a really lovely atmosphere and everyone enjoyed it and wanted it to happen more regularly.”
Throughout the three days, Carolyn expects about 3,000 people to show up to sample food and drink and purchase crafts from the various stalls.
“The atmosphere on Saturday night was amazing,” she said.
“People were so happy to dance, drink and chat which was very nice.
“The age range for the concert was from your 30s, but during the day it was a mix of young and old, which was nice to see.
“People were still wearing masks and were a bit cautious overall.”
Carolyn reassured people who missed the event last weekend that they will still be able to check out the produce on the stalls, as another food and drink festival is scheduled to take place later this year.
The fair, which will be slightly larger with around 60 stalls, is scheduled to take place in Oakham on Sunday, October 10.