Thousands enjoy Bedhampton Summer Show, come rain or shine

Members of the Royal Marines Cadets from HMS Excellent in action during a running of the field gun competition Picture by Keith Woodland

But downpours of rain failed to dampen the upbeat spirits as thousands of people descended on Bidbury Mead for the Bedhampton Summer Show.

Pompey legend Alan Knight was guest of honour.

The show was opened by the Mayor of Havant borough, Councillor Faith Ponsonby, who then enjoyed judging the children’s fancy dress.

There were a range of local organisations represented, including Northern Parade Junior Steel Band, Havant Men’s Shed, Bedhampton Volunteers, and St John Ambulance.

Local police officers and firefighters also turned up to support the event.

Music to accompany teas was provided by the Portsmouth City Band and arena displays included the Marine Cadet’s Field Gun Team.

Louis Colpitts, 23, from Southsea, who is an instructor with the Royal Marine Volunteer Cadet Corps, said: ‘The weapons we have were used in the Boer War – that’s where it all originates from.

‘We support the Bedhampton Show every time.

‘It’s locally organised for the community.’

Caroline Mengham-Smith, from Bedhampton, was loving the atmosphere.

‘I come here every year to support the church,’ she said.

‘It’s got such a lovely feel – there’s lots of people who come so you get to see all the people that live around and about. It’s beautiful down here.’

Vicki Spencer explained the work of Bedhampton Volunteers.

She said: ‘Any overgrown areas which are public areas, they take out all the brambles and plant flowers.

‘It gets the community involved.’