RECORD crowds of more than 8,400 people flocked to Callington for a memorable Honey Fair.

Callington Lions’ Jubilee Honey Fair attracted around 900 more visitors than in 2024, after last year’s event was cancelled because of Storm Amy.

The success was particularly special as the Lions celebrated 50 years of service to the town, marking the milestone with an expanded programme of attractions and a renewed focus on making the event an affordable day out for families.

There was plenty of musical acts to keep the record crowd happy at Callington Honey Fair
There was plenty of musical acts to keep the record crowd happy at Callington Honey Fair (Callington Lions)

Traders enjoyed some of their best-ever takings, while families were among the big winners, with a new, completely free children’s area at Chyvarhas Care Home offering games, activities, baby chicks, ducklings and appearances from the Lions’ mascots.

More than 850 free gifts were also handed out to youngsters, funded by Callington Lions and Samworth Brothers.

A youth talent stage showcased singing, storytelling, comedy and acrobatics, while pasty-crimping activities gave visitors the chance to try their hand at a traditional Cornish skill. There was also a new addition to the Lions’ team after children voted to name Lenny the Lion’s cousin Callie, who secured 45 per cent of the votes.

The ever-popular Rock Choir performed to the crowds in Callington
The ever-popular Rock Choir performed to the crowds in Callington (Callington Lions)

The main stage moved to St Mary’s Square, creating a new focal point for performances by Callington Town Band, Johnny Minshull, The METS, the Town Criers, Rock Choir and Andrew Dinner, before The Sultans closed the programme.

The Town Hall hosted further entertainment, including performances by The Songsters, Saltash U3A Ukulele Band and Copper Valley Primary, alongside a Town Criers competition.

Town Crier Tony Stentiford, who has been involved with Honey Fair for decades, said: “I’ve been involved in Honey Fair for decades and this year has been the best one ever.”

Lenny the Lion was out and about all day prowling the streets of Callington for every photo opportunity
Lenny the Lion was out and about all day prowling the streets of Callington for every photo opportunity (Callington Lions)

The Cornwall Bee Keepers Association brought a working hive and exhibits, while local businesses entered a window competition challenging participants to include a lion in their displays.

Lead Lion Paul Hackworth described the main stage as “faultless”, as organisers thanked the volunteers, traders and visitors who helped make the day such a success.

A new children’s area at Chyvarhas Care Home offered youngsters to get up close with baby chicks and ducklings
A new children’s area at Chyvarhas Care Home offered youngsters to get up close with baby chicks and ducklings (Callington Lions)