Not everybody could win, however good…

The judges had to make the final decision and pick three winners. The judges were:

Julia Howson, Stagecoach Theatre Arts, Abingdon
Geraldine Peers, BBC South
Mary Green, ITV Thames Valley
The Mayor of Abingdon
Eileen Bagshawe, Abingdon Drama Club

In the youngest group, they chose this harpest to win. She came back early from a holiday in Holland to compete.

In the middle age range they chose this magician.

And in the upper age range they chose this singer. He can sometimes be heard performing Karaoke at the Plough.

The winners will be invited back to perform at Fun in the Parks, and to turn on the Christmas Lights this year. Paul Mayhew-Archer (co-author of the Vicar of Dibley) was the master of ceremonies.

I’m not sure if there has been an official opening, but the fence that barred the far end has been removed.

It has taken a long time to open the bridge. The date kept getting put back – possibly because building work continues nearby.

The bridge can now be viewed close-up

and from any angle.

There were more hot-air balloons this evening. They came in low over the river and Abbey Meadows.

The balloons had to burn gas to get up over the trees in the Abbey Meadows

After the fly past they went their way.

It was after all the start of school holidays today.

Some hot-air balloons passed overhead this evening.

The balloons crossed a bright yellow field behind Kingfisher Barn.

After they were gone I waited a few minutes for the sunset.