Ely Lantern Primary School annual summer fair on June 15

The Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) hope that their Lantern Summer Fair, happening on June 15, will exceed last year's attendance of over 1000 individuals and the £4000 raised.

As much as raising funds is essential, ensuring entry and event activities remain free and affordable for all community members is just as important, according to Meredith Hux Atkins, chair of FOTLS.

Meredith said: “We know times are tough for many people - so we really want this to be something that everyone can afford.

The fair is set to be affordable (Image: Submitted)

"Most of our stalls will set you back just 50p to £1, our refreshments are mostly being done cheaply in-house and you can enjoy some activities without spending a penny.

"Of course we want to raise as much as possible for our amazing school.

"But we need to balance that with being inclusive and catering for all budgets.”

The fair promises a variety of activities, which includes inflatables, face painting and traditional games like hook a duck.

There will also be arts and crafts, a raffle, tombola and even a unique opportunity to soak the headteacher, Mr Anthony Aguda, while he's stationed in the stocks.

Guests can anticipate performances by The Lane Academy and Ely Dojo, a visit from a fire engine and G’s tractor, and an appearance from the UK Garrison 501st Legion Stormtroopers.

There are lots of free activities for children (Image: Submitted)

Nearby business Ely’s City Cycle Centre will be offering a £300 store voucher as the main raffle prize.

Meredith added: “It was really important to the committee that we shopped local for our main prize.

"This way we are giving three times - to the prize winner, to the school and also to a local business that does so much for the local community.

"We are also very grateful for all the fabulous prizes that Ely’s generous local businesses have contributed.”

The fair has already earmarked 75pc of its proceeds to provide cost of living grants to classrooms at the Lantern School.

For the second consecutive year, FOTLS has already disbursed £100 grants to each classroom.

The funds have also enabled subsidised trips to the Stained Glass Museum and Oliver Cromwell’s House, funding a nurture garden and beanbags and Yearbooks for graduating students.

Folk will even have the chance to soak the headteacher in the stocks (Image: Submitted)

Sarah Follett, a mother of two, whose daughter recently participated in the Stained Glass Museum trip said: “We are so grateful that our children get to do amazing activities at school that take into account Ely's history. 



“The support FOTLS provides classes for their trips to places like the Stained Glass Museum is invaluable.”

The public can stay updated about the Lantern Summer Fair through its official Facebook page.