HUNDREDS of residents battled the rain to attend an annual fete in Romsey.

Romsey Abbey Church of England Primary School, Church Lane, hosted the event which saw celebrity Alex Lewis open the fete.

The school orchestra, conducted by Marion Maxey, and the Romsey Old Cadets Band entertained the crowd with their shows.

There was also a live performance by the Michelmersh Silver Band and one of the teachers, Connie Hammond, featured in the band.

The headteacher, Julie-Anne Palfrey, said: “The fete is the major fundraiser of the year and we are delighted that so many local businesses support the school by sponsorship or donating prizes.”

She added: “The children have, especially liked having the local Hampshire Fire and Rescue team with their fire tender here.

“The fete is always a real community day and even the weather has not deterred our great supporters.”

Attractions at the fete included a bouncy castle, face painting, a martial arts display, guess the weight of the cake and a football competition.

Food and drink was a key feature of the fete as there was a Pimms bar, barbeque, strawberry stall and a tearoom with home made cakes.

Julie-Anne added: “Some of the stalls are organised by pupils and this is a great learning experience for them too as well as being great fun on the day.

“We have raised in excess of £3,000 which is a really brilliant result.

“Our thanks go to all staff, pupils, PTA and the governors who have helped run this event and to everyone who has attended.”

Romsey Abbey Church of England Primary School teach religious education in line with the Hampshire Agreed Syllabus and hold a daily act of collective worship.

Each week, one of these is led by a member of the Romsey Abbey clergy team.

The school’s worship is planned with the by Abbey to ensure they can make the most of the festivals and the Church calendar.