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For many years, under the auspices of Launceston’s Rotary Club, the river Kensey was damned at Kensey bridge to enable the St. Leonards water fair to take place. Named after the ancient St. Leonards Fair, it was always well attended with groups taking part in various competitions against one another, including Tug-o-war, bed and raft races. The event was brought to an end in the early 1980’s due to the increasing costs of insurance, but is fondly remembered by many.
Photo’s have been kindly provided by Penny Doney, Vivien May, Chris Gynn and Tarry Barriball.
Jane Nancarrow and Liz Soper hving a fight during the Launceston Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Penny Doney .
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Penny Doney.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Penny Doney.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Penny Doney.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Tarry Barriball.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Tarry Barriball.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Tarry Barriball.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Tarry Barriball.
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Chris Gynn.
1966 Water Fair with a group on a 1926 Clyno car chassis in Wonnacott's Meadow. Photo courtesy of Chris Gynn.
1962 Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Chris Gynn
Water Fair. Photo courtesy of Vivien May
1976 Water Fair.
Town Crier competition as part of the 1976 Water Fair.
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