The sun shone for the Swanage and Purbeck Rotary summer fete, which took place on Sandpit Field against the dazzling backdrop of Swanage Bay in Dorset.
The traditional fete which took place from 10 am to 5 pm on Thursday 6th August 2026 attracted crowds of people who bought raffle tickets, tried their hand at hoopla, browsed the stalls, and bought food and drink.
Everyone including their dog was keen to visit the fete
Music to listen to over lunch by Di Goff and Keith Lockett
“Lovely day out for residents and visitors!”
Throughout the day there was music to accompany the event, starting with the Allsort’d Choir.
There were also performances from the Ukulele Band, Keith Lockett, Di Goff, and Bruce Evans.
President of Swanage and Purbeck Rotary Linda Winter said:
“There’s good vibes and good footfall. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves and it seems to be all going to plan – there’s been a few hiccups but nothing major.
“The raffle has been very busy and we’ve had lots of presales from setting up a stall outside the Co-op over the last couple of days.
“While it takes quite a bit of volunteer effort, it’s all worth it, raising money for local and international charities, especially supporting young people.
“Our fete is also a lovely day out for residents and visitors!”
President of Swanage and Purbeck Rotary Linda Winter pleased that most things went to plan
Swanage Town and Herston Football Club was keen to publicise its campaign to provide a 3G pitch for the community
Football club aiming to reach its goal!
There were plenty of food outlets selling a variety of pizzas, crepes wraps, filled rolls, and ice cream.
Among the local organisations with a stand at the fete were Dementia Friendly Purbeck which has been raising money for a second Admiral nurse, and the Swanage Town and Herston football club which is fundraising for a 3G pitch.
The all weather pitch will provide a much needed facility at Day’s Park for the growing number of youth sides plus the mens and womens teams.
The club needs to raise £360,000 by October 2026 and has currently achieved an amazing £211,800, but in the meantime was happy to have some fun at the fete by challenging people to see how many keepie uppies they could do for a £1 donation!
Further information
- More about Swanage and Purbeck Rotary
- Help the fundraising effort for a 3G pitch at the Swanage Town and Herston football club by becoming a pitchside partner or a founding 200 club member
More photos
Brightly coloured gazebos!
Dementia Friendly Purbeck spreading the word about what they do
The Friendly Food Club helps us eat healthier
Last week this was the Swanage Carnival arena but now its the Rotary picnic area
Fun and games at the fete
Tucking in to good food
The fete was busy and successful
