Farnham Primary School – one of the smallest state schools in Essex – raised nearly £1,500 at the annual summer fete on Saturday.

Dunmow Broadcast: Being hit by a sponge is Chris Smith.Being hit by a sponge is Chris Smith. (Image: Archant)

Chair of the Friends of Farnham, Liz Hitchman, said: “This was a fantastic amount for such a small school to raise. We are very grateful to the parents, staff and the community for all their help.

“We had enormous support from the village; lots of people turned out despite the rain and we really appreciate it.”

Farnham was also celebrating its successful campaign to save the school, following a decision by the governors not to relocate it to Stansted.

“The success of the fete and the way in which everyone pulled together shows that the school really has the support of a great many people and we are delighted that its future is secure,” said Liz.

The fete included numerous sideshows and stalls, barbecue, cream teas made and served by local supporters, pony rides and a bouncy castle. The highlights were a visit from Stansted firefighters and a Teddy Bear Skydive from the top of Farnham church. The teddies ranged in age from ‘new born’ to nearly 70 and one sky dived into a nearby tree and had to be rescued.