Big thanks for Goose Fair staff

A light has been shone on the behind-the-scenes staff who help make one of Tavistock’s biggest events a big draw.

Thousands of visitors come from across Devon and Cornwall to the annual Tavistock Goose Fair in October to enjoy the funfair, trade and charity stalls and live music.

But to many, both the front-line and behind-the-scenes staff from Tavistock Town Council are just anonymous figures in hi-vis jackets.

Now however, the staff have been thanked publicly.

Rebecca Rowe, council works manager, said: “Goose Fair is described by locals as like Marmite. But regardless of divided local public opinion, it’s important to remember behind the event is a dedicated team working incredibly hard to make Goose Fair happen for traders and visitors.

“Goose Fair has been deemed a resounding success by the visiting public and traders and organisers. The increase in visitors and positive feedback is driven entirely by event personnel giving their absolute best and include multiple stakeholders, stewards and the council team.

Goose Fair takes about ten months to arrange and is a mammoth undertaking which, despite its challenges and complexities is a pleasure to organise.

“I and Wayne Southall, the council general manager, would like to express our deep gratitude and appreciation to the entire team for their hard work and dedication to Goose Fair. Our team embodies the core values of the council and we thank every member for their teamwork and dedication.”

Rebecca stressed that while organising and preparing for Goose Fair, the team also “kept up with the day job, ensuring council services continue and were not disrupted”.

Meanwhile, before Goose Fair planning resumes in two months, the council workforce is busy with arrangements for the festive season, beginning with installing the town’s Christmas lights display.