Tricia Bland, Chair of the Retailers' Association and HonSec of the Residents' Association, writes:

The second High Street Summer Fair took place on Sunday 8th June, 1-4pm, organised by the Thames Ditton High Street Retailers' Association under the auspices of the Thames Ditton and Weston Green Residents' Association. Our Union flags went up to herald the event and once again we had glorious weather and well over 1,000 people attending. The programme of entertainment was better than ever, there was a magician (courtesy of Smiles Dental), face painters, oodles of games and activities, but undoubtedly the star of the show was 'Rod Stewart' who, rumour has it, turned down an invitation from the 02 to be with us on the day. We also had the Star Wars Storm Troopers, including Darth Vader, with us for the duration, mingling with the families of Thames Ditton and luckily keeping their laser guns to themselves! All the shops put on fantastic promotions and activities for all the families and the Retailers' Association unveiled their 'Think Local. Shop Local' campaign supporting businesses and retailers in the High Street with many of the shops offering special incentives, supported by Elmbridge. Food and refreshments, including Pimms and cocktails provided by the local pubs, plus fantastic Italian ice cream and cakes from the cafes sustained the crowd while the community pulled out the stops to make the event a day to remember – the Brownies provided a tombola, local schools painted the hand made bunting while residents from Linwood Care Home made the beautiful red, white and blue paper flowers decorating the streets. There was singing from TD Infant School Choir, dancing from local Starlight Academy of Dance and an amazing display of Zumba fitness from Adrienne & Co. Kingston Aviation gave an amazing display of 100 years of locally designed aircraft and, once again, we had some fantastic competitions – including TD's Hottest Dogs. Thanks to everyone who helped and contributed and to all those who joined in the fun on the day – it was certainly a Fair to remember!

Tricia's photographs of the event are here.