Overview
The Saltash May Fair is a historic community event held annually in Saltash, Cornwall. Dating back several decades, this beloved fair has become a cornerstone of local culture and community spirit. In recent years, the management of the Saltash May Fair was taken over by Diverse Events CIC, a Community Interest Company dedicated to organising inclusive and engaging events across the Devon and Cornwall. This case study explores the transformation and revitalisation of the Saltash May Fair under the direction of Diverse Events CIC.
Background
Saltash May Fair traditionally features a variety of attractions including live music, local food stalls, craft vendors, inflatables, and community performances. It is an event that brings together people of all ages, fostering a sense of togetherness and local pride. Prior to the involvement of Diverse Events CIC, the event faced challenges such as declining attendance, logistical issues, and financial constraints.
Objectives
When Diverse Events CIC was contracted to support the organisation of the Saltash May Fair, they set several key objectives:
- Increase Attendance: Revitalise the event to attract more visitors from both the local community and surrounding areas.
- Enhance Community Engagement: Encourage greater participation from local businesses, performers, and community groups.
- Improve Logistics and Safety: Ensure the event runs smoothly and safely for all attendees.
- Financial Sustainability: Implement strategies to make the event financially viable without compromising on quality.
Planning and Execution
1. Community Involvement and Marketing
Diverse Events CIC focused on community involvement from the outset. They engaged with local schools, businesses, and community groups to participate in the event. A robust marketing campaign was launched, leveraging social media, local newspapers, and radio to raise awareness and excitement about the event.
2. Diverse and Inclusive Programming
To appeal to a broader audience, Diverse Events CIC introduced new attractions and activities. This included live performances from local bands, dance groups, and theatre companies. They also ensured that there were activities suitable for all ages, including a large inflatables area, carousel, and children’s activities and attractions.
3. Vendor and Partnership Strategy
A key strategy was to attract a diverse range of vendors and partners. Local food producers, artisans, and crafters were invited to set up stalls, showcasing the best of Cornwall’s produce and crafts. Partnerships were established with local businesses to sponsor various aspects of the event, providing mutual benefits and enhancing the fair’s offerings.
4. Enhanced Safety and Logistics
Diverse Events CIC implemented a comprehensive plan to address safety and logistical challenges. This included:
- Layout: Utilising a suitable layout, with designated entry and exit points to control the flow of attendees and prevent overcrowding in popular areas.
- Safety Protocols: Adhering to health and safety regulations, including regular inspections of stalls, structures, and equipment, availability of adequate medical cover, and training for volunteers and staff on emergency procedures.
- Security: Increasing the presence of security personnel to monitor the event, manage any incidents, and ensure the safety of all participants.
- Signage and Accessibility: Improving signage to guide visitors and ensuring that the fair was accessible to people with disabilities, including accessible toilets.
Outcomes
1. Increased Attendance
The revitalised Saltash May Fair saw a significant increase in attendance. The strategic marketing and community engagement efforts paid off, with thousands of visitors flocking to the event, exceeding previous years’ numbers. This boost in attendance not only brought more people to the event but also increased the visibility and reputation of the event.
2. Positive Community Feedback
Feedback from attendees, vendors, and community members was overwhelmingly positive. Many praised the diversity of activities and the inclusive atmosphere. The event successfully fostered a sense of community pride and belonging, and participants appreciated the improved organisation and safety measures.
3. Increased Income and Financial Success
Through careful planning and strategic partnerships, the event achieved a greater financial sustainability. Key financial successes included:
- Vendor Fees: With the increase in stall bookings, the revenue from vendor fees saw a significant rise. Diverse Events CIC’s strategy to attract a wide range of vendors, including food stalls, artisans, and local businesses, resulted in full occupancy of available stalls.
- Sponsorships: Local businesses were eager to sponsor various aspects of the event, providing a steady stream of income. Sponsorship packages were tailored to suit different business needs, offering them exposure and engagement opportunities with the event’s audience.
- Profit Share: Certain activities and attractions at the event were organised on a profit share basis, contributing to the overall income.
4. Increase in Stall Bookings
Diverse Events CIC’s proactive approach in reaching out to potential vendors and creating a welcoming environment for stallholders resulted in a notable increase in stall bookings. The event saw:
- Diverse Vendors: A wide variety of stalls, from local food producers to artisans and crafters, providing attendees with an eclectic mix of products and services.
- Local Businesses: Greater participation from local businesses, who saw the event as an opportunity to showcase their products and connect with the community.
- Repeat Vendors: High satisfaction among vendors led to repeat bookings for future events, ensuring a stable and diverse range of stalls.
5. Continued Growth and Innovation
The success of the Saltash May Fair under Diverse Events CIC has laid a solid foundation for continued growth. Plans for future events include introducing more innovative attractions, expanding the vendor base, and further enhancing community involvement. The event’s management is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that the event remains a highlight of the Saltash community calendar.
Conclusion
The Saltash May Fair, under the direction of Diverse Events CIC, has experienced a remarkable transformation. By focusing on community engagement, diverse programming, strategic partnerships, and robust safety and logistical planning, the fair has not only regained its former glory but has also set new standards for community events in the area. Diverse Events CIC has demonstrated how a well-organised, inclusive, and community-focused approach can breathe new life into traditional events, ensuring their sustainability and relevance for years to come.
