Ottery gets ready for mischief and mayhem ahead of annual Pixie Day

Ottery residents better beware as mischievous pixies prepare to descend on the town next weekend.

The town’s famous Pixie Day returns on Saturday, June 23, with youngsters once again preparing to dress up as the folklore creatures to re-enact the town legend.

The day will begin at 2.30pm with a fete in the Land of Canaan. There will be the usual range of stalls, live music from Marjorie Leek and Oakhart and demonstrations.

At 2.45pm the pet show will get under way and will be judged by veterinary nurses from Ikin and Oxenham.

Entries should be registered at 2.30pm.

The carnival committee will also be providing a barbecue and refreshments, including a bar.

Organisers also have a special treat for visitors with a scrapbook of Pixie Days of old, including snaps of the first ever event held in 1954.

The scrapbook was compiled by local historian Peter Harris and donated to the committee.

Richard Coley, who is now organising the event for the 41st year, says they will have large versions of the photos on display for people to be able to identify pixies and onlookers.

He said: “I do think people would like to see how it all started, it’s a big affair.

“If anyone has any pictures of later Pixie Days, please bring them along so we can have a look at them.”

Among the clippings in the scrapbook was a report of the event in 1971, with founder Fred Godfrey raising his concerns that a lack of helpers would kill the event.

His words came true as nothing happened from 1971 until 1978 when the tradition was restarted.

Mr Coley said the same still applies now, with new blood needed to keep the event going.

He added: “The organisers are getting older, and new blood is needed, not only on the committee, but also to help on the day itself.

“If you feel like keeping this wonderful event going, please have a word with us in the organisers’ tent.”

Pixies will set off for Ottery church at 6.35pm to recreate the story and capture the bell ringers.

The ringers will then be paraded through the streets before breaking free and thwarting the pixies’ plot.

Programmes are on sale for 50 pence at Pearsons or Hind Street Garage.