The first meeting took place at the TA Centre and among the organisations who attended were Retford Lions, Rotary, the Retford branch of the RAFA, the town's Historical Society and the local Scout Association.

They had gathered to hear from town dignitaries, Gordon Hamilton and Gerry Archer, about their proposals to get an annual spring event off the ground.

The ideas were taken on board and what was known as the First Easter Extravaganza was staged.

It was little more than a few market stalls and a fun fair on the Market Square, but it proved to be the starter to what we now know as Charter Day in celebration of the signing of the Royal Charter in 1246, giving the town the right to hold a market and a fair.

Charter Day is now held on the first bank holiday Monday in May and the organisers say a big debt of gratitude is owed to those who saw it through its early days.

"From very humble beginnings we have gradually evolved into the event we have today," said chairman, Richard Sutton.

"Other thanks are due to secretary Louise Copcutt, treasurer Diane Rowbotham and safety officer George Morris, plus Graham Hobbs and Kim Dognini who take care of the publicity."

"A victim of our own success, we have always struggled on the day for enough stewards. But I can report that this year for once we will be well-staffed thanks to the churches of Retford who have volunteered to do the job."

Mr Sutton said he also wanted to thank the Air Cadets, who man the road closures, and the St John cadets and adults, who provide first aid cover for the town and King's Park.

"People flock into town on the day to see a variety of things that make the event what it is," he said.

"A big thank you to them and all the organisations who give up their time for free."

"The only regret is that none of the local businesses have got on board with help or sponsorship, apart from the local papers."

"What we can say is that the people who attend this year's event will find it even bigger and better."