TORRENTIAL rain failed to pour cold water on Haddenham and Aldreth s annual Blossoms and Bygones celebrations on Sunday when visitors and villagers braved the elements to ensure the event s success. Vintage tractors toured the village stopping at the vari

TORRENTIAL rain failed to pour cold water on Haddenham and Aldreth's annual Blossoms and Bygones celebrations on Sunday when visitors and villagers braved the elements to ensure the event's success.

Vintage tractors toured the village stopping at the various attractions en route and members of the village's Bonfire Committee kept the barbecue fires burning ensuring there was hot food for all.

At Haddenham's Arkenstall Centre 120 people called in for tea and to take a look at the display by the Haddenham Conservation Society and the HamDrams amateur dramatic group.

Music on the village green was provided by the Waterbeach Band but the Littleport Riot Morris Men abandoned plans to dance in the rain, switching their performance to the Arkenstall Centre instead.

At the Robert Arkenstall School a display of crafts proved popular and writer Sarah Burton opened her restored railway carriage on Haddenham's Station Road to serve teas, cakes and hot soup.

Visitors found plenty of activities to tempt them down to Aldreth including an open showroom and garden by craft company, Artes Mundi, and attractions at the Baptist Chapel.

The event raised cash for local charities from the individual stalls and activities and Haddenham's Arkenstall Committee reported that it broke even on the day and has already booked for next year.