The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A huge wave of support for a Spalding Flower Parade saw a public meeting overflowing.
Organiser Steve Timewell claims he has already had 30 floats book in for the event which he is planning for Saturday, May 6 next year.
The public meeting on Thursday saw people listening to proceedings outside the Constitutional Club as supporters filled the room.
And there was huge support to bring back a parade which Spalding was once famous for but which ended ten years ago.
“It was unbelievable, we couldn’t get everybody in,” said Steve.
“We formed a loose committee afterwards and we are moving forward. There will definitely be a parade next year,” he added.
Following a meeting with South Holland District Council on Tuesday, Steve also said the Castle Sports complex would be the venue for a huge event, including a classic car show.
“We have already had huge support from local businesses and 30 floats are booked in. There will be a 3.9 mile parade and I always dreamed the parade would come back,” said Steve.
Along with the parade will be a classic car show, military vehicles, live music and family entertainment and a marquee will host craft and charity stalls along with refreshments.
The Sessions House in the town centre is also set to join the fun and will also host a craft fair.
Tulip flowers will be no problem as hundreds of acres have already been donated ahead of the event – but volunteer pickers will be needed, along with cold storage to stop all the blooms wilting.
The theme for the parade is Spalding through the decades – starting at 1940.
And the popular role of parade king and queen will also be available but in an updated contest the winners will be Spalding Ambassadors.
The whole election process will be gender neutral with the Spalding Ambassador and an Assistant being crowned ahead of the parade itself.
The parade already has a provisional route in place, starting and finishing at Castle Sports and spaces are available for more floats, bands, school groups, youth groups and vintage vehicles.
Charity stalls are also being invited to take part both in the marquee or in the arena.
Groups which have confirmed participation so far include Spalding Community Choir, Spalding School of Dance, Empire Elite Allstar Cheerleaders, the Ukulele Orchestra, Diamondz School of Dance, Spalding Marching Band and Holbeach Town Band.
Full details of how to join or to help can be found on the parade’s website spalding
flowerparade.org.uk or via the Spalding Flower Parade page on Facebook.
