HUNDREDS of people flooded onto a Fenland village green on Saturday as Coates held their annual May Fair.

The event, organised by the village school’s governing body, was hailed as one of the best ever by residents.

The May King and Queen were crowned by the school’s head teacher Joanne Tomlins before a Maypole dancing performance thrilled the crowd.

Organiser Jenny Gamble said: “At 11.30am we were soaked through to the skin as we set up, but by 1pm the sun was shining and people were flooding on to the green. “Everyone had a great time and I really must thank all those who came along with their car boot sales, charity stands and those attending the dog show for supporting the event.

“I would particularly like to thank our sponsors Easton Caravan Storage and Carole and Mike from Coates Spar shop.

“We’ve all worked incredibly hard to make this year’s event a success and this week we start preparing for next year. I’m just not sure how we’re going to top this one!”

The event featured a fun fair, dog show, car boot sale, football competition, bee-keeping stand, local Army Cadets, barbecue and school stand.

There was a family activity challenge and representatives from Fenland District Council, Cambridgeshire Police and Cambridgeshire Fire Service all attended.

Mrs Tomlins said: “I’ve only been at the school since January, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect; but I was amazed at the sheer size of the event and the number of people attending.

“I’m so proud of the children who took part, not only those involved in the traditional May Day events, but those who came along and performed the routines they’d danced for Red Nose Day earlier in the year.

“It was a real community event and it was so nice to have people coming up to me to introduce themselves and others who have offered to help the school out in various ways.”