The annual event in Rothwell begins today and culminates with the famous early-morning proclamation at 6am on Monday.

This year's fair, which arrives in the town today, promises to be as fun-filled as last year with a host of rides, exhibitions and entertainment for people in the town.

Bailiff Robert Denton, 69, has been reading the charter for more than 17 years.

Mr Denton, of Spencer Street, Rothwell, said: "This year there have been a few problems with the fair week coming so early and then running into the bank holiday.

"However, a number of the showmen have come to the rescue and it's a hope that there will be some different rides this year. Everyone is looking forward to it."

This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the formation of The Rowell Fair Society.

The proclamation of the fair's royal charter will begin at the Holy Trinity Church in Squires Hill and continue around the town to the Charter Inn.

As a special treat to celebrate the 40th year the society has bought a model of a Burell Showman's Engine.

This will be first prize in a grand raffle, which will take place on May 24.

Tickets are limited to 500 and will be on sale for £1 throughout the fair week.

Today a video of the Rowell Fair, filmed in 1989, will be on display at the Conservative Club Lounge and will start at 8pm.

Entrance is free.

On Sunday a classic car parade from the town's football club to the Rowell Charter Inn begins at 11.30am.

This will be followed by the civic parade and the blessing of the fair at the Market Square – where there will also be a steam engine and organ. There will also be a model show ahead of the proclamation on Monday.

The fair runs until Saturday, May 24.


Story behind historic fair

The Rowell Fair was first granted a Royal charter by King John in 1204.

According to tradition, the bailiff for the Lord of the Manor embarks on his traditional 'pub crawl' on Squire's Hill on the first Monday after Trinity Sunday

Protected by eight armed guards, he reads out the ancient charter at every local inn and sites of former hostelries, drinking a glass of rum and milk at every stop

Then all hell breaks loose as so-called opposers to the King tussle to try to claim the wooden halberds or staffs carried by the bailiff's minders

In 1969 people were arrested for hurling eggs and flour bombs at the then-bailiff, but today a whistle is blown by police if the celebrations get out of hand.