DAWLISH is gearing up for a cracking summer, and now the schools have closed the first of a series of events have been happening on The Lawn.

Some great old-fashioned fun was had by both children and parents at Uncle Tacko’s Flea Circus, held at the Piazza. The circus fun included Splat the Rat, Punch and Judy, the Flea Circus itself and Hoopla.

The circus is due to return again today, August 4 and next week on August 11 between 11am and 4pm. And this weekend a Family Fun Day took place. People attending were entertained by music from young Betsy – a busker who performs from Torquay to Exeter – who delighted the crowd with her singing and keyboard skills.

Treading the boards were dance troupes Footlights from Dawlish and Newton Abbot-based Oliver Brown Dance Academy. Away from the stage visitors could have their hair braided, their face painted and take part in other fun and games as well as browse the stalls while being entertained by a wandering magician.

The day was organised by Dawlish Ladies Hockey Club coach Charlotte Mindham.

She said: ‘Each year we have this day and split the proceeds between the hockey club and a chose charity.

‘This year we chose the Ewings Sarcoma charity, and raised an incredible £1,500 in total. I’d like to thank all the businesses who kindly donated prizes for the day.’