Whole village turns out for Leighton Bromswold’s 800th celebrations

Shailesh Vara, Member of Parliament for North West Cambridgeshire, officially opened the celebrations marking the 800th anniversary of a Royal Charter allowing fairs to be held in the village of Leighton Bromswold.

Sir William le Marshall (Guillavmele le Maréchal), treasurer of King John, originally obtained the charter to hold a fair in the village on the feast of the invention of the Holy Cross (3 May). To mark the event the whole main street of the village was closed for a street party which included a sit-down meal and free drinks.

Mr Vara said: “It was a great pleasure and privilege to start the celebrations and to unveil the plaque marking the 800th anniversary since Leighton Bromswold obtained its charter to hold a fair on the feast of the invention of the Holy Cross.

“This was a significant local event marking yet another milestone in Leighton Bromswold’s extensive history. Such events are extremely important to the community as they remind us of the richness of our local history.”

Mr Hugh West, Treasurer of Leighton Bromswold Social Committee commented before the event: “The fair is one of many events that are held in Leighton Bromswold each year. Each event has always been a great success and the proceeds made are used to improve our local community. Last year alone we made approximately £4,000.

“We are overjoyed that Mr Vara will be kick-starting this historic event and we expect a turnout of around 161 villagers.”

Photo: Mr Vara officially opening the celebrations with all the residents of Leighton Bromswold