UKIP in Morpeth

UKIP at Morpeth Fair, 12th June 2011

Ably supported by Regional Organiser, Gordon Parkin, and two members from other branches, UKIP Wansbeck manned a stall at the very popular Morpeth Town Fair which attracts people from a wide catchment area across South Northumberland. Happily the weather defied predictions and stayed dry and sunny all day.

Gordon had built a fine stall, covered in posters and balloons, and well-stocked with an assortment of promotional items and donated bric-a- brac that attracted attention. Local members Kristy and Linda-Lee had also made a variety of small items, hand-made soap and play dough, to sell.

We distributed hundreds of copies of the Daily Express supplement and the Crowded Britain DVD, given out in a bundle with a membership form of course, and were able to discuss UKIP’s policies and raison d’etre with a good many passers-by and others who came up and asked for information. These included the operator of a local radio station, who showed a lot of interest and may provide a forum. Some good debate was enjoyed, especially with members of the local Conservative Association who are increasingly concerned about the ambivalent position of their existing leadership; they may yet find a more natural home with us.

Two new members signed up on the day, and a number of other people expressed their interest and support. We were certainly kept busy from 10am until after 4.

While this was essentially a flag-waving exercise, the new members and the money raised are both welcome; but perhaps the main benefit was the opportunity to distribute information that might hopefully stimulate thought and activity.

Lessons learned? A variety of items for sale, old and new, attracts people to browse, especially if there are colourful, inexpensive things for children. Funds permitting, it would be worth buying a little stock of such things in advance.  A raffle or tombola is still very popular – we were located next to the Cat’s Protection League, and they were raising a lot of money through those activities. Having a number of members present on the day allows for breaks, while others can circulate.

Later in the year there will be a number of agricultural shows held around Northumberland, where those attending are likely to be sympathetic to our aims. We shall be planning to have an even more substantial presence there.