News: Chilbolton Church Fete 2026
The weather was clement, if a little warm, but visitors were undeterred and flocked to Upcote where the 2026 Church Fete was hosted for the first time by Duncan and Nicola Revolta.
A well-attended event meant that the stalls were kept busy throughout the afternoon.
The bottle tombola is always popular at the Fete, offering astonishing value for money.
The toy stall was busy all afternoon.
Once again, chilbolton.news had sponsored the Pimms and Beer tent. There was a permanent queue of thirsty customers.
The host for the day was Andrew Kent, Chair of the Parochial Church Council, and he kept everyone informed of what was happening, and the bargains that could be had.
The plant stall had an excellent variety of plants at attractive prices.
The Hoopla challenge was worked by Maureen Treadwell, recently awarded the MBE. Here she offers advice to her daughter, Emma, on how to snag the big prize.
Fun dog show
As ever the Fun Dog Show was very popular. Vet and Chilbolton resident Anna Pillar interviewed owners and judging was done by a colleague.
First up was “Most Handsome Dog”, which was won by Hendrix, a five year old Border Terrier.
Hendrix, the Border Terrier with his owner, Daisy
Next we had “Prettiest Bitch”, which was won by Leela, a eight year old Chihuahua.
Leela, the Chihuahua, in the arms of David, her owner
“Dog with the Waggiest Tail” was Archie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Archie, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The “Dog most like its Owner” was Milo, a four year old Cockapoo, who was handled by Eva.
Milo with Eva
As Andrew Kent observed, “all puppies are cute”, and this was proved in the Show Ring. The “Cutest Puppy” was judged to be 11-month old Lyeka who was helped around by Lara. Lyeka is an interesting mixture of breeds: Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel and Collie.
Lyeka with Lara
The final class was for dogs over the age of ten. Winner of “Denarians” was Leo a Shetland Sheepdog who wears his 15 years with effortless aplomb. He was expertly handled by Grace.
Maddy, Leo and Grace
A lovely day in a beautiful garden
As we remarked in our review of Open Gardens, Duncan and Nicola Revolta have worked wonders with the improvements they have made to the garden at Upcote.
Today’s Church Fete shows that it is also eminently suitable for hosting a Village event.
