On 7 July 2012 it rained from the morning through to the evening with hardly a let up. But was the ‘Not the Jubilee West Hill Road Street Party’ in danger of becoming Not the Street Party at all? Not at all – especially when there was plenty of British bulldog spirit and neighbourly bonhomie to ensure the rain did not dampen the proceedings — although it tried, in buckets.

A hastily-erected shelter of tarpaulins was improvised and stitched together with bits of old rope attached to parking signs (now, that’s why they’re useful). This allowed the magnificent Euphoria Steel band to entertain the covered crowd with some wonderful numbers and the music conjured up a picture of sunny Caribbean weather which was all too far away. They played Chariots of Fire in preparation for the occasion when they accompanied the Olympic Torch relay through Brighton and warmed everyone up with their enthusiasm.

Medals were won for a variety of Olympic trials which included tossing the torpedo, slinging the wet sponge and running the egg and spoon race.

Some truly scrumptious pies were entered into the Pie Competition which was judged by Ashley and John from Mishon Mackay (the estate agents who generously sponsored the party). Ellen won the savoury class with her Steak and Guinness pie while Polly won the sweet section with her Key Lime pie. Jake’s pie, complete with the West Hill Rd legend, can be seen on the front cover, and everyone won as they tucked into the pies and were entertained by the Swing Ninjas band.

Another glorious example of why living in the West Hill is good for you.