Tan Parsons SWORDPLAY, live music and a novelty dog show will be among the attractions at Highgate s annual fair. The Fair in the Square, held in association with the Ham&High, will take place in Pond Square on June 13 and promises to be a fantastic day f

Tan Parsons

SWORDPLAY, live music and a novelty dog show will be among the attractions at Highgate's annual fair.

The Fair in the Square, held in association with the Ham&High, will take place in Pond Square on June 13 and promises to be a fantastic day for residents of all ages.

The main stage will feature the Ham&High Acoustic Music Showcase - a celebration of talented local artists, this year including Kilburn-based musician Sean Taylor and singer-songwriter Vashti from Tufnell Park.

Steel band Tropical Heatwave will play in addition to other acts, plus there will be swordplay from the French Fencing Factory, a bellringing exhibition and the fair's inaugural novelty dog show sponsored by PetVet.

Ham&High editor Geoff Martin said: "The annual fair in Highgate is going from strength to strength and we are very proud to be associated with it again this year.

"We're trying something new with the Showcase event, and if it's a success, we'll roll the idea out to other festivals over the summer. But it's fitting that the first of what we hope will be many such events will be at the Fair in the Square.''

The surrounding streets will be closed to traffic on the day and lined with about 60 stalls selling all kinds of arts and crafts, clothes, plants and produce, while local charities and societies will also be well represented.

A multitude of events will be held in the children's marquee, including a return of the Punch and Judy show after a lengthy absence from the fair in recent years as well as roundabout rides, face painting, storytellers and puppet workshops.

The Pearly King and Queen of Camden are hotly tipped to judge the dog show, which will have categories including the dog that looks most like its owner, best looking dog, the scruffiest mutt, the best child and dog (open to children under 10) and the dog with the waggiest tail.

Christina Nolan, from the fair committee, said: "There has been a fair in Highgate village for more than 300 years and we are continuing the tradition.

"This year's fair promises to be the best ever - a giant street party appealing to people of all ages."

Tasty treats ranging from cupcakes and a traditional hog roast to ice cream and organic produce will be available in the square.

Highgate United Reformed Church will also serve afternoon teas along with the Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, which will also run an antiques and collectors' fair.

The Fair in the Square takes place from 12.30pm to 5.30pm and is organised by the fair committee with the support of the Highgate Society, the Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution and the Highgate United Reformed Church.

This year's sponsors include Camden Council, Taylor Gibbs, the Red Lion and Sun and Blueorange.

Due to space restrictions, numbers for the dog show are limited and entries must be made in advance by June 10 at PetVet, 351 Archway Road. There is an entrance fee of �2 per dog per category.

For up to the minute details, visit the website www.fairinthe square.co.uk.