Bidford set for second Bash as wait for repair cash goes on

THE second Bidford Bash will be held on Big Meadow today, Saturday, 17th September, to boost the village’s economy.

It is being organised by Bidford Chamber of Trade and Commerce, which was formed in the wake of the several months’ closure of Bidford Bridge after it was hit by a crop spraying vehicle last summer.

Meanwhile it emerged this week that Warwickshire County Council is still fighting to recover the £390,000 it cost to repair the medieval structure from the vehicle driver’s insurance company.

A spokesman told the Herald: “This is currently going through active litigation and we will update you as a priority as soon as we have an outcome.”

Patrick Marshall, chairman of the Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said it was “ridiculous” it was taking so long to recover the money.

Saturday’s Bash starts at 12 noon and finishes at 11pm, with live music food stalls and bars, an Italian market, a dog show, a tombola, a tug of war and a bucking bronco. Entry is £1.

Last of the summer fêtes

Also taking place this weekend is a summer fête organised to raise money for Heart Research UK, Stratford-based Goodwill and Growth in Africa (GAGA), which supports African children and communities devastated by HIV-AIDS and poverty, and forest garden project on part of the old RAF Snitterfield.

The fête is on Sunday, 18th September, at 1.30pm and takes place at The Riverside in Tiddington.

There will be activities including hula hooping and welly wanging, while other attractions will include a dog show and cake bake as well as free music. Visitors can also browse a variety of craft, plant, food and drink stalls.

And one lucky family will be in with a chance of winning a seven-night holiday for four to Cyprus in the raffle.

Admission is £2 for adults and free for children, with free parking nearby.