The 78th Hawkridge Revel and Gymkhana takes place on the most beautiful site with stunning moorland views and skyscapes. Renowned for its determination to remain a traditional family fun event with home cooking and no glaring commercial interests, the Revel provides a haven of how things used to be.

Horses play an important role, with showing classes in the main ring, children’s show jumping, Mountain and Moorland and Exmoor Ponies in the other rings.

The ever popular childrens’ mounted fancy dress draws an enthusistic audience as the commentator tries to persuade recalcitrant toddlers to tell him their own name, never mind the name of their entry character and pony.

The foot races are equally popular, with athletes from 0-90, wildly cheered on. A full programme of gymkhana classes follows, whilst in another part of the field the Dog Show attracts many well-known breeds of dog together with some imaginative hybrids whose genetic history can only be guessed at.

Here, in the heart of Red Deer country, the Antler Competition amazes visitors seeing for the first time, close up, the awsome size these animals  can reach. Horns have to have been found where the stags have shed them in the Spring. Competition is fierce and faces are solemn as judgement is awaited.

Meanwhile there are fun and games to be had with skittles, traditional games of skill, dexterity and luck and, at the end of the day, the utterly ridiculous Barmy Dog Race.

It’s picnic time in an oasis of peace and entertainment. Refreshments are home baked and the ice cream is locally made. Seek an unexpected bargain from the plant, clothing and book stalls and try your luck in the raffles.

Hawkridge boasts just 11 homes plus neighbouring cottages and farms and loves its annual romp. Step back in time for gentle fun in a glorious setting.

Entry is by donation, from 10am. Profits are shared between the village hall, church, local charities and good causes.