A DELUGE of rain failed to dampen spirits at a popular summer celebration on The Heath.

Crowds turned out to support the annual fair staged by Knutsford Lions for more than 30 years.

It is designed to be a community event giving many local charities and organisations an opportunity to showcase their work.

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Knutsford Guardian: Knutsford may queen Orla Bolton judging the dog show with town mayor Cllr Colin BanksKnutsford may queen Orla Bolton judging the dog show with town mayor Cllr Colin Banks (Image: Sarah Bolton)

Town mayor Cllr Colin Banks and Knutsford May Queen Orla Bolton judged a fun dog show.

Cllr Banks said: “It was a wonderful event. Just when we thought it was sunny and safe, the heavens opened.

Knutsford Guardian: Town mayor Cllr Colin Banks and Knutsford May Queen shelter under brollies during a downpourTown mayor Cllr Colin Banks and Knutsford May Queen shelter under brollies during a downpour (Image: Knutsford Lions)

“As Orla was writing scores on a sheet they were being washed off in the rain.”

A record number of owners entered their dogs to find the prettiest pooch, handsomest dog, waggiest tail and pooch most like its owner.

Knutsford Guardian: Proud winners of the dog showProud winners of the dog show (Image: Knutsford Lions)

Community stalls were dotted around.

The mayor and May Queen both added stitches to a new tapestry of Knutsford Heritage Centre.

Knutsford Guardian: Knutsford May Queen Orla Bolton adds some stitches to the new tapestry of Knutsford Heritage CentreKnutsford May Queen Orla Bolton adds some stitches to the new tapestry of Knutsford Heritage Centre (Image: Sarah Bolton)

Live music was provided by Birchwood Community Brass Band.

Knutsford Guardian: Town mayor Cllr Colin Banks adds some stitches to a new tapestry of Knutsford Heritage CentreTown mayor Cllr Colin Banks adds some stitches to a new tapestry of Knutsford Heritage Centre (Image: Colin Banks)

Fairground rides, games and donkey rides kept children entertained.

Knutsford Guardian: Children enjoying donkey ridesChildren enjoying donkey rides (Image: Knutsford Lions)

Families were fascinated to see the owls from Lower Moss Wood nature reserve.

Frisbee golf supported the work of Hope Central and welly wanging raised money for a children’s charity in Malawi.

Knutsford Guardian: Welly wanging raised money for Kasupe, a children's charity in MalawiWelly wanging raised money for Kasupe, a children's charity in Malawi (Image: Knutsford Lions)

Marbury Dog Activity Club put dogs through their paces on an agility course.

Lions president Paul Buttrick said: “It was a very enjoyable day with a lovely atmosphere.

“It never ceases to amaze me how the people of Knutsford come out to support us.

“We are grateful to Tatton Estate for granting us use of the Heath and Knutsford Town Council for their support.

“We would not be able to run this event without the wonderful support from Knutsford Hosts and volunteers.

“We are grateful to everyone who was involved and all who came along despite the vagaries of the British weather.”

No charge is made for stalls and charities keep any takings Commercial and food and drink providers are invited to make a donation to the Lions charity fund.