Eco Fair to become annual event

The first 'Montgomery Winter Eco Fair' was such a success that it is to become an annual feature in the town’s calendar

Organised by Montgomery Energy Group (MEG), the event took place under a full moon at town’s Whitegate Pools area, which was transformed by light and colour on Friday night.

The centrepiece was a waterwheel turned by a small stream that runs through the site, which provided all the electrical power for more than 3,000 LED lights, gazebo floodlights and a music system. The waterwheel was designed and built by David Wilson, of MEG’s Hydro Project.

Montgomery’s Mayor, Councillor Lionel Weaver, opened the fair and congratulated MEG on this and other projects including repair cafes, community gardening and bicycle scheme, all of which have been set up during 2017.

 Councillor Eric Fairbrother presented a brief background to the eco event and threw the switch to start the main displays. The LED lights were computer-synchronised to music to provide a colourful animated light show which reflected around the pool.

 The event demonstrated that mains electricity or petrol generators are not needed to stage a successful fair and illustrated modern, low power, low carbon solutions. 

 The main bridge and walkway provided a magical viewing platform for the show and display of lanterns made by local children from recycled two litre plastic bottles. 

 Winner and runner up of the lantern competition, judged by Mayoress Pat Weaver, were Rosie Upshall-Truman and Jenny Bailey-Beech, who were given tickets to see the film ‘A Christmas Carol’ in Montgomery Town Hall on Friday, December 8 and for swimming at The Dragon Hotel.

 The event included hot food from The Ivy House Cafe, mulled cider from Old Monty Cider, crafts and entertainment. 

 Cllr Jill Kibble said: “It was an absolutely fabulous display - forget Oxford Street, this was pure magic. Well done Dave, Paul, Jeremy and all the team for a unique Monty evening.” 

 To find out more about MEG’s activities or to get involved, contact Jeremy Thorp on 07722 722863, jeremy.thorp@gmail.com or the “Montgomery Energy Group – MEG” Facebook page. The fascinating story of the Hydro Project waterwheel build can be followed on the “MEG Hydro Project” Facebook page.

 Picture captions:

 Visitors to the Montgomery Winter Eco Fair admire the children’s competition lanterns from the lit walkway

Photo Credit: David Wilson