AROUND 15 years ago, one of the Island’s well-liked early summer events was the annual Ventnor Crab Fayre, which was organised by the Lions Club of Ventnor.

For much of its more recent history, this popular event was was held at Ventnor Rugby and Football Club at the end of May.

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Historically, its roots went back to the former Crab and Lobster Inn — not to be confused with the present Crab and Lobster Tap — which was the centre of Ventnor’s social life and held a fayre on the front lawn.

The idea for the modern-day Crab Fayre was revived in the mid-1970s, as a country fair and food festival dedicated to locally caught crabs.

The County Press article from the 2005 event reported a bumper harvest of more than 100 locally-caught crabs, which were sold out in double-quick time.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Clive Hemming from Ventnor Lions with one of the last remaining crabs at the fayre, circa 2005/6.

The event also used to play host to many charity stalls, entertainment by local performers and school groups, and lots of fun activities including face-painting and ferret-racing.

In 2006, the event was relocated to Ventnor Middle School, but new licensing legislation, risk assessments and extra costs meant the tide was sadly turning on this unique event, which used to draw crowds of several thousand each year.

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You can also click here to visit our Looking Back section for more nostalgia stories.