AN annual fun event is being held in a village that staged its first fair almost 750 years ago.

There will be something for people of all ages at the North Curry May Fair on Church Road and Queen Square on Saturday, May 12.

Among the activities and entertainment are swing boats, horse and carriage rides, cream teas, barbeque and drinks, stalls, local producers and artists.

Organiser Victoria Harris Day - whose grandmother used to organise the event - said: "The special day includes all sorts of fun and games for all the family, celebrating the traditional and new while raising money for local organisations and charities."

North Curry was granted a market by charter of King John in 1206 and Edward I granted a two-day fair on Lammas Day on August 1, 1280, which was centred on the church and village square.

On the first day, sheep and livestock were penned up in The Shambles, labourers were hired and tradesmen's and doctors' accounts settled, while people enjoyed beer and sweetmeats, head their teeth drawn and were entertained by strolling players and musicians on the second day.

The market and fair were discontinued in the 1840, although the fair has been revived and is now in its 112th year, having previously been held in the grounds of Moredon Estate and the vicarage in Manor Field.