July 23rd, 2021.


Hundreds of people turned out to enjoy the tenth year of the Denton Community Challenge event last Saturday.

After last year’s lockdown, the organisers were determined that the event would go ahead, in spite of lingering Covid restrictions. To address this, there were plenty of masks and pots of sanitiser available, as well as notices reminding people to socially distance.

Tea, coffee and cake, normally served in the community centre, were served outside instead, leaving extra space in the hall for the Craft Fair. Stalls out on the fields were well-spaced, providing plenty of room for people to move freely without crowding.

The two fields were full, with over 50 different stalls made up of local sporting and community groups and local stallholders. Many stands provided sporting challenges for the children, which could be enjoyed for a small charge.

On completion of the challenges, the participants were presented with their ‘Dentokyo’ rosette by Bob Peedle, the Chairman of the Seahaven branch of the Royal Society of St George, before enjoying a free burger from the 2nd Denton & South Heighton Scouts BBQ.

Nearly 200 children took part this year.

The event was opened with a resounding cry by the Newhaven Town Crier, bravely dressed in full regalia - including a thick woollen jacket in the sweltering heat! Councillor Lesley Boniface, Mayor of Newhaven, made an opening speech.

Normally there is a full programme of activities in the arena to keep everyone entertained, with performances and displays by local sporting and activity groups. This year the decision was taken not to include an arena to give more space on the field. An inflatable slide, bouncy castle and bungee trampolines were a great success and provided some extra excitement for the children. Smaller children were kept busy with face painting, crazy golf and other activities.

Over in the community centre, the Craft Fair showcased locally made handicrafts and produce, while just outside, the ever-popular tea bar did its usual roaring trade, along with the cake stall stacked with home-made cakes.

The day was brought to a close and the grand raffle drawn by Louis Wilson, vicar of Denton Church, and Bob Peedle from the Royal Society of St George. The first prize was a Nintendo Switch, kindly donated by Keep It Clean Ltd, and there were many other prizes, all generously provided by local businesses and residents.