Mule Festival On Friday 12th September 2003 members from the Cumbria Branches of N.E.M.S.A. welcomed buyers and vendors to The Shap Wells Hotel to a Mule Festival. The event was kindly supported and funded by Cumbria Fells and Dales Leader +. The object of the function was to encourage people to come to the Lakes and Dales for a holiday and hopefully buy some of our excellent mule gimmer lambs whilst they were up north. The evening started with everyone being welcomed by our President, Mr Jim Gibson. Nearly 200 guests from as far afield as Cornwall to Scotland sat down to an excellent hot buffet which included dishes made from Cumbria mule lamb. After the meal guests were entertained by Mr Philip Cornelius from Cornwall who shared reminiscences and told some light hearted stories. Mr Cornelius has been visiting Cumbria with his family for many years. Guests were invited to view a display of old photos of Kendal, Kirkby Stephen and Lazonby shows and sales, which many found interesting. Thanks to Bob Wearmouth, who was instrumental in obtaining funding for the event, and to all the Branch Chairmen for their help in organising and promoting this event. Special thanks to Cumbria Fells and Dales Leader + for supporting us, and without whose help this venture would not have been possible. JEFF BURROW Kendal Branch Chairman