Picture gallery: Bubbles, bagpipes and dancing complete another successful Northam May Fair

The people of Northam turned out to enjoy another popular Northam May Fair under clear skies on Saturday (May 3).

The community event once again combined a mixture of traditional May merriment such as a parade and maypole dancing with plenty of entertainment and activities for people of all ages.

It began with the traditional parade, featuring the May King and Queen, plus the Mayor of Northam Niki Tait and dignitaries, Bideford Youth Pipe Band, fancy dress competitors, marines and cadets.

Above: The opening procession to begin Northam May Fair, with Bideford Youth Pipe Band. Credit: Graham Hobbs 

At the Rectory Gardens, this year’s king and queen, Theo Fulford Brooke, aged five and Beatrix Kilby aged four were crowned, followed by maypole dancing and judging of the fancy dress.

Above: Northam May Fair 2025 King and Queen Theo Fulford Brooke, aged five and Beatrix Kilby aged four, with the Mayor of Northam Niki Tait. Credit: Graham Hobbs

In keeping with the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday (May 8), this year’s May Fair had a distinct 1940s theme, with visitors encouraged to don VE Day-related fancy dress.

Throughout the day people enjoyed entertainment, including Pucnh and Judy with local stalwart Dave Hendy, plus Bideford Phoenix Morris and Appledore Band as well as spectacular bubble blowing displays by popular performer Bubbles the Pixie.

There were plenty of stalls and activities, rides on a miniature traction engine, face painting and Exmoor Zoo took along exotic creatures to meet.

The annual dog show was held at nearby Bone Hill plus there were classic cars at Northam Hall and motorcycles in Cross Street.

See more pictures by photographer Graham Hobbs in our online gallery above