HUNDREDS of people descended on Stockbridge for an annual family festival.
Trout ‘n’ About took place in the town’s High Street on Sunday, August 4.
The annual event, which is held on the first Sunday of every August, aims to raise money for good causes in Stockbridge, promote quality food and produce, provide a platform for local business and offer a memorable day for the community and visitors.
Alongside the stalls, there is also live music, a fire engine on display, and buses from The Friends of King Alfred Buses.
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There were hundreds of happy faces at this year’s event, with many people having travelled from far away to visit Stockbridge for the day.
Sharyn Oliver had travelled for an hour to get to the event.
She said: “It is probably one of the best festivals I have been to. Everything is exceptionally made and of brilliant quality.
“It is my second time here and it won’t be my last. It has a great atmosphere and is in the most beautiful place.”
Clint Jenkin and Lauren Barrett came from Andover to see Trout ‘n’ About.
Lauren said: “It has been really fun so far. We haven’t been before, but we’ll definitely come again!
“My favourite so far has been the chilli stall, but there is still so much to see!”
Former Top Gear presenter Tiff Needell was also in attendance. Speaking briefly to the Chronicle, he said: “It is a lovely event.”
Traders were also enjoying themselves at Trout ‘n’ About.
Adam and Kimberley Eversfield, of Jaded Jewellery, came to Stockbridge from Marchwood to sell their wares.
Adam said: “This is our first time trading and third time visiting.
“It’s brilliant. It is better now that the road is closed, people feel safer walking around and there are more conversations about products. People are more willing to stop and chat about our items, and they have more freedom to roam.
“The weather has been good to us as well, which makes a big difference and everyone seems to be in a good mood.”
Cat Mowbray, the practice manager for River Dental Stockbridge, said: “I think this is the best-organised event in Stockbridge. The road shutting is great, it is a little bit safer for everyone.
“It has been a lot better for traders.”
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Bob Powell, chair of the voluntary committee which organises Trout ‘n’ About, said: “I took over as chair two years ago, so last year was my first year running it – I was in the events business for about 30 years until I retired. I took a look at the High Street and how busy Trout ‘n’ About was with the traffic, and it looked like an accident waiting to happen.
“So, I had a good conversation with Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council about getting the will to close the road, as the paramount thing for us was for everyone to visit us, visit Stockbridge and go away safe.
“You look at everyone, and they’ve all had a great time today, and that is the main thing. It is what Hampshire should be about!
“We’re a terrific county, and we should celebrate it. It’s all local businesses, local producers, and it’s been truly terrific.”
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