The original idea for field day was born in late 2007 in the Globe. I was asked what I would do about the threatened housing development on the field at Creedwell Orchard. Having heard that Milverton was full of artists, I suggested that all of these so called 'Artists' should get together and 'Do' something.

What actually happened was better!

In early January a motley group gathered over tea and biscuits to come up with a few ideas. At that point Milverton Field Day was born. On July the 5th 2008 The Old House threw its doors open to the public for a unique event, an arts celebration of our field. The whole community joined together in the celebration. 'Field' entries from young and old in all disciplines sat side by side making a visual statement of support. Poetry written for the day was read to the audience in the Great Hall. The 'Adhocs' an octet formed for the occasion sang about Somerset's green fields. An archive of photos of Milverton through the ages was on display in the library with film footage of village life produced by a local film maker. Milverton's Silver Street Band braved the weather and played for those enjoying tea and cake in the garden.

The Day was a resounding success despite atrocious weather and competing with several other events. What made it so special was the depth of community spirit. We must keep that spirit alive. A large development on our Field will threaten the fabric of our village, clog our streets and irretrievably alter its equilibrium. The on going aim of the Milverton Field Day committee is to seek support to save our field. We fervently hope that other communities under threat of losing their green spaces will take up the call 'Save the Field' and have field days of their own.