IT WAS ducks rather than donkeys which were more suited to Monday's sodden conditions at Godstone Green.
Constant showers threatened to overwhelm the village's traditional annual fete and donkey derby.
Many charities saw takings well down on previous years. It was particularly unfortunate for the Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions, as the annual event is their main fundraiser of the year.
Helpers and stallholders, dressed from top to toe in rain gear, gallantly went ahead with putting up their gazebos.
Although it was not quite a washout, ten stallholders pulled out of the event and most people started packing up at about 3.30pm, after the last donkey derby race
Nonetheless, an ice cream van turned up and a jazz band played cheerful music, in spite of the damp and gloom. One bric-a-brac stallholder, who had no cover at all, still managed to raise more than £40.
Susy Radio gave a commentary on the day, including on the races.
Organisations represented include the RNLI, RSPB, Age Concern, St Catherine's Hospice, the Glebe House and Godstone Women's Institute.
Godstone Village School, which runs a tombola every year, put a lot of preparation into its stall which sold hot foods and drinks, cold drinks and homemade cakes.
An absolutely drenched Pat Burgess, who helps on the fete committee, said it may have been a terrible day but she had still enjoyed it.
