Romsey Cromwell Arms' charity CromFest braves the rain

The event at The Cromwell Arms on August 29 and 30 featured live music, face painting, a BBQ and the chance for visitors to meet birds of prey.

The two free days of family-friendly fun raise funds for Naomi & Jack's children’s hospice in Sutton Scotney.

The pub’s general manager, Sean Knight, said the festival had retained a “nice vibe” despite the weather, with families still coming and going throughout the day.

He said: “We have kept everything still going. We’ve kept the charity feel as well. It’s something different, aside from your typical pub activities.”

Chef Tomasz P and Sean Knight (Image: Newsquest)

“Last year was a real hit with the village. It’s the weekend before the kids go back to school and it gives families the chance to enjoy one last weekend.”

Josh Folkes, Katie Bryant, Nicola Bryant and Edith Wong were among the other local people who attended, having walked to the event from their home.

Katie, who works as a paediatric nurse, said the event’s support for Naomi's & Jacks made it especially meaningful to her.

Nicola Bryant, Katie Bryant and Edith Wong (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “I know Naomi’s and Jack’s really well. I have had a few patients who have gone to spend their last days there.

“It’s a really good cause.”

Among the birds on display were Cillian, a Blue Chilean Eagle, the largest eagle in South America, and Thomas, a New Zealand falcon.

Karen Judd from Huxley’s Bird of Prey (Image: Newsquest)

Karen Judd and Andy Grigg, from Huxley’s Bird of Prey, said it gave people an opportunity to learn more about them while supporting a local cause.

Andy said: “People can come out and look at the birds, ask questions and take photographs.

“A lot of effort goes into putting on the event. It’s a nice little event, with nice, friendly people and for a good cause.”

Cillian the Blue Chilean Eagle (Image: Newsquest)

Residents Kate and Mike Terracciano attended with Bobby and Lorenzo, having missed the first CromFest last year due to being on holiday.

Kate said: “It’s good, it’s nice. We were away last year, so we didn’t get to come.

“People in Romsey are so used to weather being like this, it doesn’t bother them usually. With the weather we have had, it’s nice we have got a bit of rain.”

Kate and Mike Terracciano with Lorenzo and Bobby (Image: Newsquest)

Kate said it reminded her of the King’s coronation, when it was ‘absolutely tipping it down’ but everyone was still dancing and had a lovely time at the pub.

The Cromwell Arms is also planning a comedy night on September 25 and a murder mystery event on October 23.