‘THE rain stops nothing’ were the words of a group of festival organisers today in York.

Despite the downpour, the Bishopthorpe Community Festival took place today with around 65 stalls turning out for the occasion and the archbishop stopping by to bless the event.

The event follows the huge success of previous years and hopes to showcase local performers, crafts, and raise money for the community.

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According to one of the six organisers, Linda: “It all started in Covid – lots of people were lonely and really struggling. I offered to do the shopping for people in the village to help and it all went from there.

“I made a passing comment on Facebook about how we should do a street party, and it all stemmed from there.

“The whole point was to do something nice and get the village back on its feet.”

Some of the rides at the FestivalSome of the rides at the Festival (Image: Alice Kavanagh)

Since then, the festival has been held each year – only cancelled once after the passing of the Queen with a smaller event held shortly after to give artisans a chance to sell their crafts.

Laura, one of the other organisers, continued: “Our aim is to help as many people as we can and have fun. We didn’t know each other before we started the festival but now we’re friends through this.

“We couldn’t do it without the support we get from the local community – even in the rain”

The Archbishop speaks at the event - despite the downpour!The Archbishop speaks at the event - despite the downpour! (Image: Alice Kavanagh)

The event was blessed by the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell who spoke about his love for the local community - before popping into the pub for a pint, to mingle, and to enjoy the day’s proceedings.

Some of the charities that the festival fundraises for are SCBU at York Hospital, Candlelighters, Cystic Fibrosis UK, St Leonards, Snappy, MND, Mind, and the local community group – with each organiser selecting a charity to donate to.

Other charities were also present with their own stalls.