Hundreds of revellers enjoyed the summer sunshine at the Witham Medieval Fair.

Medieval dress was optional but certainly order of the day at the event in and around St Nicolas Church, Chipping Hill, on Saturday.

This year's theme was Caxton and the birth of printing.

Long queues formed in streets as the gates opened and visitors of all ages enjoyed the jazz band, stalls, dancing displays, the Army cadets and lots of fun.

Anne Beken, of Maldon's North West morris dancing troupe, was performing two displays at the fair.

She said: "It's very good, there's lots of things to do and I am really enjoying myself."

One reveller, Julie Tebbit, of Epping Way, Witham, said: "I have lived here for 36 years and this is the first time I have been. It's very nice."

Dressed as a monk, co-organiser Gerald Smith with his wife Brenda, also dressed traditionally, as they welcomed residents.

He said: "The queues were quite a way down the street and they have not stopped coming in. It's gone brilliantly."

Organisers hope to raise thousands of pounds which will go towards church funds.

Published Monday, June 30, 2003

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