For this week’s bygones, we are going back to September 2002 when the first-ever Caversham Festival came to town.
Hundreds of people from all over the area and beyond came to the event that saw bumper cars and bouncy castles on display, where people from all ages seem to enjoy the autumn festivities.
The day was so popular that the burger and beer tents ran out of stock on three occasions, but, they made an incredible £880 from the inaugural festival.
The festival’s creator, Cllr Steve Waite, admitted that he was ‘reluctant’ in starting the event, but, thanks to the ‘support’ from local businesses and the local people, the Caversham Festival was a soaring success.
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At one point, police became concerned they might have a crowd control problem at the horticultural tent, but, the friendly nature of the event prevented any problems.
Cllr Waite said at the time: “The Unplugged tent, where the teenagers were playing their music, was right next to the Women’s Institute stand – so I don’t what they made of each other.
“But it was great because the festival really did have something for everyone.”
Popular hits from the day were the maypole, the juggling flamethrowers at the bumper cars, along with the burger and beer tents.
From what people said at the time, the first-ever Caversham Festival was a popular hit with the locals.
The festival wasn’t the only thing worth celebrating in September 2002 as a new nursery at the Coley Park Primary school was opened to the public.
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To remember the grand opening, numerous balloons were let off with the school’s students and members of staff present.
The month also people enjoy themselves at the Tonkers Green and Chazey Heath Fun Day, where people had their faces painted, watch a magician, and went on a bouncy castle.
In all, more than £1,200 was raised with funds going towards the Rokeby and Recreation Ground refurbishment project.
Organiser Andy Trueman said: “The traditional races proved a big hit for both young and old, especially the sack races, where the dads were keen to show off their athletic prowess.
“The tug-of-war between the men and at the women was very closely contested, but, in the end, the men took it.”
Finally, September 2002 saw the West Berkshire Citizen Advocacy Service increase its popularity.
The WEBCAS aimed to help those with disabilities by recruiting volunteers in and around the area, to help those who need it the most.
They told the Reading Chronicle at the time: "We are always looking for volunteers."
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