Salisbury Charter Fair champion honoured by city
Billy Whitelegg has been honoured with a plaque on the city's Guildhall
A long-time contributor to Salisbury's annual Charter Fair has been recognised for his service to the community.
A plaque honouring former President of the Showmen's Guild, Billy Whitelegg, has been unveiled at the Salisbury Guildhall.
In a ceremony attended by Billy himself, his contributions were celebrated with speeches from Mayor of Salisbury, Sven Hocking, ; Chairman of the Western Section of the Showmen’s Guild, Steven Hill; and Vice Chairman of the Western Section, Stevie Edwards.
Their words highlighted Billy's dedication, influence and impact.
He's been a member of the Showmen for over 70 years and said:
“I've known Salisbury all my life. Salisbury Fair is part of my family's life. I love Salisbury Council. I love the people in Salisbury. I’d like to thank the council for installing the plaque and the Showmen for coming today…The people of Salisbury, the council, they've treated us like part of the family.”
The Mayor of Salisbury, Cllr Sven Hocking, said, “This plaque serves as a mark of our thanks to Billy Whitelegg of the Showmen’s Guild, honouring his lifelong connection to Salisbury and the Charter Fair. Billy has been attending Salisbury Fair all his life, joining the Showmen’s Guild at the age of 21, after serving in the army, and rose through the ranks of the Guild until he became president. We are truly grateful for his commitment and contributions.”
Steven Hill, added, “It's a privilege to be in Salisbury. It's a lovely city, where there's a fantastic fair in October. I thank the council, the mayor and the officers for giving Past President Billy Whitelegg the plaque on the side of the Guildhall, for the hard work he's done in Salisbury. We really appreciate it.”
Gina Farrell, Billy’s eldest daughter, expressed her family’s gratitude, saying, “We are very, very grateful for the council for putting the plaque up. I know Billy is absolutely over the moon for it as we all are. Can't thank the council enough for all their hard work for the fair and helping us in any way they can.”
The plaque can be seen on the Guildhall's front steps.