The Haslemere Charter Fair is just around the corner. On Monday 4 May, the High Street and West Street will be closed to traffic and instead filled with stallholders, offering a wide range of products and services alongside plenty of fun for all ages. 

Held every two years, the Charter Fair has a long history, with origins dating back to an Order of April 29, 1221, which allowed a weekly market and an annual fair to be held in the town. This was during the reign of Henry III. Over 150 years later, in 1393, Richard II and the Bishop of Salisbury confirmed this Order with a new Charter, and although the weekly markets were already established, the first fair in Haslemere was reported to be held in 1394. This Charter was then later renewed by Queen Elizabeth I when she made the town a borough and permitted two annual fairs. Hundreds of years later, Haslemere still holds a Charter Fair every other year.

These days, the Charter Fair is organised by a group of volunteers from Haslemere and surrounding villages. However, this year, the group are short of people to help and are urgently seeking extra pairs of hands to make the event possible.

Volunteers are needed on Monday 4th May (Bank Holiday) between the hours of 7.45 and 10 in the morning and from 4 to 6 in the afternoon. You don't need to do both slots - any time you can spare would be gratefully appreciated. 

In the morning, roles involve stewarding, helping people find their pitch and answering their questions as they set up. Don't worry - you won't be expected to know all the answers - Melanie and Heather will be on hand to provide guidance and support. 

The afternoon shift involves helping to ensure that everyone gets away safely as well as litter picking the site ready for the road to reopen. Again, there will be experienced people there to show you the ropes and to support you. They just need a few more bodies in high viz for reassurance and to help get the job done. 

This is a voluntary role, but the organisers were keen to tempt you to help with the offer of free coffee and bacon sandwiches as a thank you!

If you can help, or would like to find out more, please get in touch with Lisa O'Sullivan at Haslemere Town Council on town.clerk@haslemere-tc.gov.uk. 

Thanks in advance for your support.