FOOT and Mouth restrictions mean that Shavington's May Day Festival will be smaller than usual.

But although the annual event will have to be confined to the village instead of the High School fields organisers are hoping it will prove as popular as ever, raising funds for local charities and organisations.

And they are planning to make it a 'Green' Festival.

"Parking will be a problem so we want local people to leave their cars at home and come along on foot," said a spokesman.

The 2001 Fayre, on Monday, May 7, has been reduced after advice from MAFF and the county council.

"It is with regret that we have taken the decision to stage the event on a smaller scale.

"But the aim of the festival is to enable local charities and organisations to raise funds as well as providing entertainment for the people of Shavington so we do need lots of people to come along and give their support," the spokesman added.

There will be stalls in and around the village hall, a craft hall in St John's and refreshments and more stalls in St Mark's.

The car park at the rear of the village hall will feature a wide range of outdoor stalls and that's where the opening ceremony will be performed at 2pm by the Mayor, Cllr Barbara Bickerton.

This will be folowed by the crowning of the Festival Queen.

Music will be provided by the United Norwest 2000 Youth Band and the 'Samba Blocks' who will also hold workshops on the car park during the afternoon.

Davey the Clown will entertain children in St John's Hall.

By Beryl Pateman