Greetham Triumphs as village festival delivers record-breaking fun, craft ales and a red arrows flypast.
Greetham was a village united in celebration at the weekend as the much-anticipated Greetham Music, Ale and Cider Festival proved to be an overwhelming success, drawing crowds from across the county for a day of community spirit, music, and aerial spectacles.
After 18 months of meticulous planning by organisers Steve Bertuzzi and Stephen Calnan, the village greenspace transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Backed by a phenomenal team of around 80 local volunteers, the event welcomed an estimated 750 attendees through the gates from midday right up until the final notes faded at 11pm.
The day’s proceedings officially got underway with a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by high-profile guests Lord Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness and High Sheriff Susannah Fish. Straight after the ribbon fell, the Rutland Morris Dancers took to the arena, delighting the gathered crowds with a traditional performance that set a joyful, energetic tone for the live bands that followed.
Festival-goers were spoiled for choice when it came to refreshments. A curated selection of craft ales and premium ciders flowed freely throughout the day so popular that they very nearly completely sold out—while a variety of local food vendors kept everyone well-fed.
However, one of the undisputed highlights of the day happened overhead. Festival crowds gasped and cheered as both the Red Arrows and a classic Spitfire thundered through the skies, treating attendees to breathtaking flypasts that will be talked about in the village for months to come.
While the music, drinks, and skies provided the entertainment, the true heartbeat of the festival remained its charitable core. Every single penny of profit raised from the event is set to be split between three vital regional causes: the Greetham Community Centre, Voluntary Action Rutland, and Rutland Sailability.
Organisers and volunteers alike can take a well-earned bow. Through sheer hard work and community dedication, the Greetham festival has firmly cemented itself as a crown jewel in the local calendar.
Including Market Place, Market Street, Church Street, Crown Walk,
John Street, Melton Road and Deans Street and Gaol Street.
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