Militaria fairs are battling on despite the constant confusion over ever-changing Covid-19 restriction.
The Kempton Vintage & Classic Arms Fair, usually held inside at Kempton Park Racecourse, was moved to Sandown Park Racecourse for the event on October 4 to make social distancing easier.
Organiser Peter Binfield said that Sandown is “at least three times bigger than Kempton and allows aisles of least four metres width minimum”.
He added: “Our gate was down 10% from normal but all the traders loved the massive safe spaces and all the Covid-19 rules in play and we are 80% booked for next year’s fairs at Kempton Park, with regulars placing deposits. We raised £1500 for Macmillan Cancer Support on the day.”
The December 13 date for the next Vintage & Classic Arms Fair is postponed until spring 2021.
“By then we should be able to return to the halls at Kempton Park,” added Binfield.
Down in Hampshire, meanwhile, another militaria fair has returned to action. “500 people arrived over the six hours we were open, fortunately not all at once,” laughed Sara Hughes, organiser of the Vintage, Antique & Militaria Fair held at Petersfield Festival Hall on September 27.
The event in the Hampshire town was postponed in May following February’s launch.
The majority of the 42 stallholders – who were mainly wearing masks so people could not see their smiling faces – had a very good day and have rebooked for the next fair on December 6.
Hughes added: “This was a huge gamble for me, but the Festival Hall was very supportive and helpful in getting the fair up and running again.
“It has given both them and myself the confidence that the rules can be followed and fairs can continue safely.”
Sara Hughes is on 07759 697108.
