The 2006 King's Teignton Ram Roasting Fair attracted a record crowd of around 5,500 people to Oakford Lawn on bank holiday Monday, reflecting the enduring attraction of one of the village's oldest traditions, writes NIGEL CANHAM. The day's proceedings commenced with a 9am service of thanksgiving conducted by the Rev Bob Bamburg, of St Michael's Church, Kingsteignton, after which residents Jimmy Gates, Evan Froome and Peter Tibbs began to roast the rams. At 1pm, the fair was officially opened by Tony Beard, the Wag from Widecombe, and in came the crowds. One of the first attractions was the new scarecrow competition which generated much interest and was won by the Kingsteignton Baptist Youth in the organisations section and by Nicola and Ellie Chivers in the competition for individuals. Elsewhere, Elfic the Jester entertained the crowds, as did Carl Durbin with his traditional Punch and Judy Show. And with just three practices under their belts owing to poor weather leading up to the fair, the Maypole dancers did 'exceptionally well', according to show secretary Catherine Harris. Miss Harris, who has announced her retirement from the post following next year's show, was herself a Maypole dancer at the fair half a century ago and finds herself surprised to be training today's generation. But train them she did and the children performed a number of dances, including The Barber's Pole, Double Weave, The Spider's Web and The Kingsteignton Tower. As well as presenting prizes throughout the day, Mr Beard crowned May Queen Sofia Robbins, who was attended by Emma Booth, Lydia Welsh and Jazmin Whyte. The number of entries for the many children's sports events was so great that heats had to be held for most age groups, and the crowds were impressed with a fine display by the Torbay Olympics Gymnastics Club. Another popular attraction was the Kingsteignton at War exhibition, staged by Richard Harris, while another war, this one of the tugging variety, was won by the team from Ships, Newton Abbot With falconry displays by Martin Whitley, ferret racing, sunny if chilly conditions and endless cups of teas and cakes supplied by 'the ladies in the kitchen', the day was hailed a great success by the fair's committee, which has extended its thanks to all who helped and attended.