CROWDS gathered in Newent on Saturday, March 21 as the town welcomed the return of its annual Spring Fayre.

The free event, organised by Newent Town Council and supported by the Newent Business Club, ran from 10AM to 4PM and offered a full day of family-friendly activities to celebrate the arrival of spring. With free parking available, the event proved accessible and attractive to visitors from across the Forest of Dean and beyond.

Now in its third year, the fayre continues to grow in popularity, with residents and visitors enjoying a wide range of attractions spread across the town centre. Highlights included free craft workshops, live music and performances, and guided history and nature walks, giving people the chance to explore Newent’s heritage and surrounding countryside.

The Town and Country Market proved a major draw, featuring a variety of local produce, street food and handmade goods from independent traders. Community stalls also lined the streets, showcasing local organisations and initiatives.

Younger visitors were well catered for, with children’s games, messy play sessions and storytelling activities running throughout the day, alongside interactive workshops and entertainment.

Seasonal traditions were also at the heart of the event, with an Easter bonnet parade bringing colour to the town, while the Easter egg hunt remained a firm favourite with families. A daffodil trail and campfire s’mores added to the springtime atmosphere, celebrating one of the area’s most recognisable natural features.

This year’s fayre supported two local causes, raising awareness for BusesUs, which provides the town’s free Daffodil Shuttle service, and Space to Grow, a project working to bring more of the area’s famous wild daffodils into the town.

Organisers thanked volunteers, community groups and businesses for their efforts. With strong support and a packed programme, the Spring Fayre once again proved a successful celebration of community spirit in Newent.