THE lashing rain which threatened to make the bank holiday May Fair a washout failed to dampen the spirits of hundreds of residents who flocked out to enjoy the day despite the weather.

Lee Marmara, making one of his last public appearances as town mayor, fell early victim to the downpour when a stall collapsed under the weight of water and drenched him.

Dried out and back on track, retiring mayor Lee Marmara tries out the miniature railway.

And InChoir must have had momentary doubts about their choice of repertoire with an opening number which began "The sun is shining in the sky..."

But it seemed the town was determined to make the best of the bank holiday whatever the weather and the Lions enjoyed an unexpectedly large turnout for their now traditional day of family fun.

"East Grinstead folk are made of tough stuff", said tourist officer Simon Kerr afterwards, "the weather cheered up eventually and everyone obviously had a great time."

Top