The group of women behind the successful, original Rai Valley Spring Fete have banded together again and revived the event. The fete will be held on Sunday, the first day of daylight savings and the first weekend of the school holidays.

Fete spokeswoman Tania Lawrence has praised the efforts of the women in restarting the event.

"The small community has been rocked by controversy over the last couple of years, but people want to focus on the many positives in the area. Dianne Payton, Liz Della Bosca, Jenny Archer, Faye Leov, Debbie Abraham, Sarah Leov and Tania Lawrence are the brains behind the day," she said.

Country musician, Matt McNeilly, leads the lineup of great entertainment.

Marlborough Boys' College students in the acclaimed quartet Fella Voce will also entertain as will the Wairau Plains Music Muster, with McNeilly and world champion dancer, Kelly Webster.

Site registrations are filling up fast.

Tania said the fete is focussed on helping our small rural community showcase and fundraise for community projects. The original fete saw more than 2000 people through the gates and more than $10,000 raised for the local community library.

"Proceeds from the fete this year will go towards upgrading the toilets at the Carluke Domain and to help paint the Rai Valley Area School pool. However, all community groups have the opportunity to come along and fundraise for themselves," she said.

The fete is from 11am until 4pm at The Carluke Domain, just outside the Rai Valley village. A gold coin entry is charged.

"It will be a fantastic family day out in a beautiful rural setting."

Local business, REM, is sponsoring a bouncy castle, there will also be face painting, pony rides and a baby animal petting zoo. For adults there will be a selection of arts, crafts, artisan producers and great food.

- The Marlborough Express

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