Members’ Bulletin | Week Commencing Monday 28 September 2026

The Curious History of Croydon’s Walnut Fair

Did you know that Croydon’s famous Walnut Fair dates all the way back to 1314? For centuries, it was one of the town’s biggest annual events, attracting thousands of visitors from across London and Surrey.

The fair was about much more than walnuts! There were hundreds of stalls, food, music, circus performers, exotic animals and even “learned pigs” that could apparently answer questions by picking up cards. One elephant became so fond of the buns from a local bakery that it escaped its enclosure and made its own way into town to help itself to more!

The original fair eventually came to an end in 1868, but this weekend Croydon Harvest is bringing some of its spirit back to the town centre, with music, performances, crafts, food and activities.

Croydon Harvest featuring the Walnut Fair takes place Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October, 12 noon–5pm, across Croydon town centre. It’s free to attend, see the full programme via the link below:

Croydon Harvest featuring the Walnut Fair 2026 – Culture Croydon

For an audio guide to the fair, you can listen here:

The Walnut Fair Audio Guide – Pollock’s Toy Museum

Dates for Your Diary

AGM – Thursday 8 October

Our Annual General Meeting takes place on Thursday 8 October, 1.30–2.30pm. We’d love to see as many members as possible there. If you’re planning to come along, please let Reception know in advance so we can make sure we’re prepared for everyone. We look forward to seeing you!

Seated Ballet – Every Tuesday

Our popular Seated Ballet sessions continue every Tuesday afternoon, 1.30–3pm, until 26 October. Come along for some gentle movement, music and fun – everyone is welcome!

Relax & Unwind With Stella

Stella offers our members two types of Indian Head Massage therapy, both lasting approximately 50 minutes:

• Traditional Indian Head Massage – £15: No oil is used, and the treatment is carried out seated and fully clothed.
• Ayurveda Head Massage – £20: Uses warm sesame oil, with a towel provided around your upper body.

Both treatments focus on the head, neck, shoulders and arms; helping to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation and a general sense of wellbeing. The Ayurveda treatment also promotes healthy hair and skin.

Treatments are carried out seated, making them easy and comfortable to enjoy. As one member put it: “Pure bliss!”

If you would like to book a session with Stella, you can speak to reception, email info@croydonvision.org.uk or call 020 8688 2486.

Nicola’s Note

Last week, I attended the Visionary Conference in Birmingham, where more than 100 sight loss charities from across the UK came together to share ideas, challenges and opportunities. It was inspiring to connect with colleagues across the sector and hear about the innovative ways organisations are supporting people living with sight loss.

There were some particularly thought-provoking discussions about progressive sight loss, how we can best support people through changing circumstances, and the importance of using positive, empowering language. It was a great opportunity to reflect on what we’re doing well as a sector and where we can continue to improve. I’m already looking forward to next year’s conference!

A quick reminder that our AGM is taking place next Thursday. I’m delighted that we’ll be welcoming a wide range of guests, including representatives from the National Lottery and the London Marathon Foundation. If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still time to join us.

Have a great week.

Nicola

Puzzle of The Week

Question: If Anwar is 5, Sarah is 3 and Rachel is 1; what is Victoria?

Please scroll down for the answer…

Answer: 6! The number refers to the position of the letter ‘R’ in their names.

Phone Croydon Vision: 0208 688 2486 OR

Email: info@croydonvision.org.uk