Babbacombe Fayre returns with all guns blazing - and an array of dogs

Now celebrating its 70th year , its triumphal comeback after the Covid year saw a record breaking day for families and visitors alike.
Now run by the Rotary Club of Torbay Sunrise , it was decided to move the annual event from its traditional date in June to the summer holidays on a Sunday, attracting a whole new audience of locals, families and holidaymakers - a move that paid off for the dozens of local charities that benefited on the day.
Over 70 stalls filled the Downs from the Babbacombe Theatre one end all the way to the Babbacombe Cliff Cafe at the other.
Bouncy castles, military displays, local businesses and charities flooded the Downs with things to appeal to everyone, including a special appearance from Patrick the Pony.
The crowds had a full day of non-stop entertainment on the stage from the Razamatazz Choir to Tai Chi and the Ukulele Strummers to Zumba dancing. Most of the nine food and hospitality outlets sold out by the end of the day, and it was noted from many of the Babbacombe shops and seafront businesses that they also enjoyed one of their best days of the year .
The highlight for many was the introduction of a fun dog show where it seemed every other person on the Downs had brought their dog - or did their dog bring them?
Rotary president Andy Uglow and his wife Kathy, whose idea it was for the new canine addition, presented prizes of doggy treat party bags to the worthy winners.
The Rotary Club and president Andy were totally overwhelmed by the public response and success that has put the Babbacombe Fayre firmly back on the map as being one of the Bay’s major and much- loved events in the local, annual diary.
Next year's fayre has already been earmarked for Sunday August 11 with inquiries open now!
The Rotary of Torbay Sunrise next event is the annual Fleet Walk Christmas charity grotto.