A HAMPSHIRE village has hosted a successful fete in spite of blustery conditions.

Braving the winds and occasional torrential rain, the Meonstoke, Corhampton & Exton Church Fete got under way as planned on Saturday, July 6, and was rewarded with a largely sunny afternoon.

Opened by two Local Hero award winners – for their unstinting support during the Covid lockdowns – postman Steve White and Meonstoke Stores owner Nell Gibson cut the ribbon on a day filled with music, classic cars and traditional games.

READ MORE: Hampshire village fete to have duck race, coconut shy and classic cars

In the absence of real ducks, rubber ones had to suffice for the duck race (Image: Pippa Heggie)

In his first foray out as the new MP for Winchester, Danny Chambers may have hoped for a quiet cup of tea and cake while perusing the stalls but quickly found himself roped in to judge the dog shows.

The fete is on course for record takings of £9,000 amid a good turnout.

SEE MORE: Hampshire village fete will see fun games, classic cars and dog show

Juniors and seniors alike grabbed their egg and spoon and gave their all as they hopped across St Andrew’s green in burlap sacks or loped along with "three legs", while ducks – albeit plastic ones – floated down the River Meon in a race of their own.

As a result, appetites were running high with hundreds of burgers sold, gallons of Pimm's served and dozens of cakes sliced.

The Soberton Strummers ukulele club (Image: Pippa Heggie)

A new format for the raffle allowed punters to bid only for a prize they wanted.

“I’m so chuffed,” said the winner of the top raffle prize – a week in Cherry Lodge cottage on the Isle of Wight.

The Meonstoke, Corhampton and Exton Fete remains non-commercial, run and staffed by volunteers with all proceeds going to the village churches. The event is supported by donations from local businesses and individuals.

A significant contribution from SES Environmental Ltd underpinned this year’s fete.