A FAMILY fair known for bringing the community together made its return to a Teesdale village this weekend.

Residents and visitors from far and wide travelled to Romaldkirk for the annual village event which started with a fancy dress parade outside the village’s Reading Room.

Caroline Peacock, High Sheriff of County Durham, opened the event and said: “This is the first fair I have opened – I cannot think of a nicer one.

“We have some very novel games, some I have not seen before. I think these village events and community events are part of the fabric of community life and I think they are very important.”

Entertainment included Punch & Judy, traditional games and stalls and music was provided by the Middleton & Teesdale Silver Band and Stanhope Band. A fun dog show was the highlight for many, with four-legged felines battling it out to win titles including who has the waggiest tail.

The Rumold Morris dancing team also performed in full dress, showing off their skills in the ancient art.

This year a steam traction engine made its debut in the village after engine enthusiast, David Todd, of Spennymoor, spent five years rebuilding it.

Speaking at the event, fair chairman, Derek Nixon, said: “The fair brings everyone together.”