THE DATE of the popular South Downs Green Fair has been announced by the team behind the day at the Sustainability Centre.

Year on year the fair in the grounds of the centre off Droxford Road near East Meon has attracted more visitors and stall holders.

This year it is on Sunday, May 13, 10am to 5pm, and will include plenty of activities for all the family, such as circus skills, storeytelling, juggling, bushcraft demonstrations and outdoor cooking.

Local food and drink stalls will be offering Fair Trade and organic wares and vegan and vegetarian meals, and the on-site Beech Cafe will also be serving food.

Music from local and national bands will keep the day alive with music, and interesting presentations and talks from leading speakers on practical, greener ways of living will also be part of the event.

A centre spokesman said: “It will be a fantastic day out for the whole family with plenty to do and see, whatever the weather.

“Whether you are looking for a family day out with a difference, or to meet other local people involved in practical sustainability, or want to enjoy good music, with beer and food thrown in, it’s promises all of that and more.

“A wide variety of free children’s activities throughout the day will keep all ages busy and amused.”

As well as promoting the fundraising fair, the centre is also driving a £750,000 fundraising appeal to help convert the former Ministry of Defence building it uses into an eco-friendly learning centre.

This project will completely transform the former Royal Navy building into an eco-friendly, state-of-the-art space.

The learning centre will have a dedicated education suite, with inspiring indoor and outdoor teaching areas.

There will also be community facilities for local groups and activities, and a rural enterprise hub with office and meeting space for local small and start-up businesses.

The hub will also provide opportunities for employment in an area of rural deprivation, and support for green entrepreneurs.

Fair tickets cost £8 for adults and £3.50 for children, and for more information about the fair visit the website www.sustainability-centre.org.

To learn more about the eco learning centre contact Lorraine Stone on 01730 823166, or e-mail her at: [email protected]