THERE are fewer than six weeks to go until the return of Romsey’s largest annual event.
The 31st Romsey Beggers Fair will take place on Saturday, July 12. The event has seen success in recent years, with the 2024 event attracting approximately 7,500 visitors to the town.
This year, the event will have approximately 200 acts and performers throughout the town.
Andrew Cox, part of the organisation team for this year’s event, said: “Last year we had around 7,500 people come. It is a big thing. It is not advertised widely, it is a community event – everyone who is involved is local. We are doing it for ourselves and our town.
“It is an unusual event in that it is not a blues festival or a jazz festival, but it is a community event.
“It is weeks away, so it is building up. We are anticipating around 200 acts and performers this year.”
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The performances will be spread around roughly 25 venues throughout the town, with two main stages in the Memorial Park and the Cornmarket.
However, Mr Cox said that the event is still looking for help, both with fundraising and then volunteering on the day.
He explained that the fair usually receives funding through donations from local businesses, but that the event was still having some issues getting enough money, saying: “Costs have increased, costs of everything have increased.
"We know businesses are facing similar challenges, but the money is not quite as forthcoming as in previous years. We do recognise that.
“We would welcome any support people feel they can offer.”
Despite that, Mr Cox stressed that there is no danger of this year’s event going ahead. He added that “volunteers would be welcome” in helping run things on the day, with the event needing about 40 volunteers on the day. The organisers are also looking for people who can help with managing the fair throughout the year.
He said: “I was a punter last year, I only got involved a few months ago.
“It is very hard work, but it is very rewarding. One thing that I noticed last year as a punter was that everyone was happy and cheerful. The organisers, the people supporting them, and the attendees. It was wonderful.”
The Beggars Fair organisers have some new tricks up their sleeve to promote the event, including a newsletter which they will be distributing.
More information about the event, as well as how to get involved, can be found on the Beggars Fair website.
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