Runners, riders and penny grabbers alike are all gearing up for a fun-packed programme of events as Sidbury Fair Week kicks off today (Saturday).

A horticultural show will mark the opening of this annual event, with green-fingered villagers displaying their wares at Sidbury Social club.

On Sunday, September 14, fair-goers can limber up to take part in the 16th annual fun run and walk, which will start at 11.30am (with registration before 11am), following an informal service at St Giles Church from 10.45am to 11.15am.

The more serious sporting types can stretch their legs on the new 5.5km course and all participants will receive a pottery memento of the event. A sizzling hog roast will be available later in the day.

For those who prefer mental exercise to physical, The Red Lion is hosting a quiz evening from 7.30pm on Monday, September 15, with a £5 entry fee for each team of up to four people.

The popular amateur photography competition returns on Tuesday, September 16, with a flora and fauna theme; organisers hope to beat last year’s total of more than 80 entries.

Children aged 12 and under can get involved in the action by taking part in a photo and picture competition of the same theme and all photo entries will be displayed in church (with pictures in the village hall).

The traditional hot pennies throw will also take place on Tuesday at noon, at the new location of Church Street.

Sidbury Fair day on Wednesday, September 17, brings a livestock and poultry sale (from 2pm), country clay shoot (10am – 3pm) and the Jordon Memorial Duck Race from 3.30pm, along with local produce and crafts aplenty.

In the afternoon, Sidbury farmer Alan Derryman, a British Sheep shearing champion who came third in the 1988 world championships, will be giving a shearing demonstration alongside champion wool handler Gwenan Paewai.

St Giles Church is to host a harvest thanksgiving service from 7.30pm, on Thursday, September 18, with a skittles challenge planned at the Red Lion on Saturday, September 20.

The final event, an equestrian pleasure ride starting at Sidbury Manor, takes place on Sunday, September 21.

Riders will saddle up to leave between 10am and noon and the cost is £15 per adult, £10 per child. For more details about the ride, contact Jan Prettejohn on 07989 436105.

For full fair listings, see this week’s Sidmouth Herald.