Included on the November agenda were two matters - the length of the May Fair festival and the site for the amusements. These had already been voted on and passed at the October meeting, yet were now to be discussed again.
The decision taken at the October meeting was that the fair should run from Saturday to Saturday, with the amusements sited in the Town Hall Square (seven voted for and four against). After we left the November meeting that decision was overturned and the fair will now be Tuesday to Saturday, with the amusements God knows where and the continental market in The Square.
It has since been uncovered by us that The Square was already reserved for use by the market from Monday to Saturday during the May Fair week. This was never discussed or voted on by the May Fair Committee.
I am not opposed to having the market at the fair (I enjoyed it last year), but I don't think it needs to be in the main Square instead of the amusements.
In 1982 the amusements were moved out of The Square to the East Antrim Harriers field on the Ballynure Road. This was a disaster as the field turned into a quagmire underfoot (I was there), and the amusements were back in The Square in 1983.
Last year the Mayor's parade was on the final day. It should be returned to the first Saturday as every festival needs to start with an event that everyone (regardless of age) can take part in.
Finally, I was shocked by remarks made by councillor Jackie Mann at the November meeting. To be called 'thick as champ' was insulting. This was inappropriate and uncalled for behaviour by a councillor and I appreciate comments made by other members of Newtownabbey Borough Council who agreed.
I hope the fair gets sorted out soon for the people of the town and surrounding districts to enjoy, not to appease the Chamber of Trade and Newtownabbey Council.
Yours sincerely,
Another 'thick as champ' May Fair Committee member.
(Name and address supplied)