There was only one event in town on Sunday 28th April, when Ollerton celebrated St George’s Day in patriotic style.
St George and his trusty henchmen duked it out with many a fiery dragon or would-be knight. However, they survived the day and plan to ‘do it all over again’ next year.
A whole host of never-ending entertainment included a traditional Punch and Judy show, the Dukeries Singers, Morris dancers, the Dukeries Community Band, local singer Gabriel Nuttall and the biggest cheer of the day was saved for local school children who bravely took to the stage. Enthusiastically and entertainingly, they took part in the final of Ollerton’s Got Talent contest. This really was a musical feast as the aspiring entertainers showcased their singing and intricate dance routines.
From the first few moments, Ollerton Village Residents Association (OVRA) was busy selling a selection of homemade cakes and freshly filled rolls. Amadeus, the award-winning chef from Bella Vita restaurant, donated a triple chocolate torte. Minutes later, a string of sweet toothed customers monopolised the torte and one described it as a ‘slice of heaven’.
OVRA rolled out the welcome mat for many visitors throughout the day including Mark Spencer MP for Sherwood and County Councillor Mike Pringle.
Anticipation aptly filled the afternoon air when the dog show got underway in the town field. Children excitedly took their pets along for judging by the expert eyes of vets Janice Dixon and Kirsty Reid of McPherson and Partners of Rainworth. Many categories saw the presentation of colourful rosettes to the winners by Janice and Kirsty who were splendid in their role of judges.
As the day’s credits started to roll there was a special presentation to the Reverend Philip Howson for his inspirational role as chairman of the St George’s Day Steering Group over the past two years. OVRA wish the Reverend Philip shoals of happiness and success in his new role as a vicar in a little corner of rural Cambridgeshire.