Pie Powder Court (including a charity auction) to celebrate Cloth Fair Day in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot’s historic St Leonard’s Fair – commonly known as Cloth Fair – is making a returning on Saturday, November 7 at 10am. The fair dates back to Henry III, and there will be an auction for Devon Air Ambulance during a pie powder court (any guesses on what a pie powder court actually is?)

“St Leonard’s Fair is the original charter fair of the borough, granted by King Henry III c. 1250, held on 5th, 6th & 7th November being the eve, day and morrow of the Feast of St. Leonard, and long known as the Cloth Fair from the principal commodity on sale,” says a notice in the town.

It continues: “Changing times and practices led to demise of the fair two centuries ago, but it was then revived in ceremonial form five years ago by the borough courts, with proclamation at the Declaration Stone by the Tower and the holding of a pie powder court including an auction for the benefit of the portreeve’s charity. Last year two clothing stores were visited, and this year four such stores will be involved.

“The day chosen is the Saturday nearest to the Saint’s Day, and members of the courts will gather at The Market House Inn in Market Street from 10am for refreshment before the ceremony commences at 10.30am. The Proclamation will be followed by a short service, and the auction is for the benefit of Devon Air Ambulance. Members of the public are welcome at all stages of the proceedings. ”

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