THE ANNUAL St Leonard’s Fair in Newton Abbot saw the traditional Inspection of the Cloth.

The ancient tradition involved the Court Leet and Court Baron members being heralded on their way by the Borough Crier Eveline Davis.

Steward Michael Martin reminded members that they would visit ‘fine retail establishments to inspect items of cloth’ before returning for an auction for benefit of the Portreeve’s charity.

The establishments visited this year were Percy’s, Austins bedding, Austins menswear and linen ware and Austins ladies wear.

After inspecting the cloth, Portreeve Allan Vizor then stated: ‘The officers and jurors of this ancient borough have examined this sample of your wares and found it sufficient. I therefore hand you this certificate to display within this establishment, to show all and sundry that your merchandise has been approved at St. Leonard’s Fair 2023.’

The Portreeve and members of the Court were ‘delighted’ with the quality of all the goods sampled this year.

The Courts will be presenting a certificate to the chairman of Teignbridge District Council with the fair toll of seven shillings and six pence.

An auction held later of the cloth items which included tea towels, t-shirts, tablecloth and gloves raised from £66 will be donated to the Portreeve’s charity Rowcroft Hospice.