Village mixes mince pies and protest

HARKING back to the golden age of railway building might seem an unusual way to protest about a new line, but people in Stoneleigh held a Victorian Fayre as part of their campaign against the proposed high speed rail route.

By The Newsroom

Published 1st Dec 2010, 10:43 BST

The annual event on Saturday raised awareness for the Stoneleigh Action Group against HS2, which is opposed to a line linking Birmingham and London that would pass through the village.

People did not let the prospect of this spoil seasonal celebrations. Church bells accompanied the switching on of the village’s Christmas lights and Stoneleigh Male Voice Choir led carol singing.

Margaret Wallis, of the Stoneleigh Action Group against HS2, said: “Many villagers came dressed in their Victorian best. Everyone enjoyed the traditional sweets, roast chestnuts, having their photos taken in Victorian costume, visiting Father Christmas and taking a chance on the tombola.”