Picnic in the Park

Sunday 7th May saw neighbours getting together for Picnic in the Park to have a good time together and celebrate the coronation.  Around 250-300 people joined in and a thoroughly good time was had by all, with so many people commenting about how great it was to see the park so well used. This was the second party in this park, with the first being organised last May.  It was great to see how both the number of organisers and the number of people attending had grown.

The party was organised by women who attend the Thursday morning social space and there was an invitation too to all facebook members to get involved. The intention was to keep the day as cheap as possible so that no one would feel unable to join in because of money worries.  

The community group successfully applied to Awards for All, a small lottery pot, for money to help with the costs of the party.  And, only spent half the amount granted, which means there’s money over for another party!

On the afternoon, face painting was provided by Lisa, a community member who has recently set up her business, after a successful pitch at Pies and ££s.  She was booked for two parties on the day too which is brilliant news.

Caroline George, a local singer, entertained us for an hour and it was great to see her Mum dancing along to her tunes.

There was a two hour bubble workshop from Ebulio, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. This was the second time Ebulio has been enjoyed in this community.

A coronation themed arts and craft table was hosted by Vicky and loved by children.

And children (and adults!) enjoyed the inflatable slide provided by Bounce a Lot North West, who were great value and we’d definitely use them again.

The weather stayed good and the sun was out for us so, Ramzy, the ice cream seller did a roaring trade.  So good that he offered the organisers free ice creams and has donated ice cream sauces for next Saturdays community party at St Annes.

There was a lot of work and effort involved in organising this party and a lot of liaising with the Council. Community members were busy planning activities, making water paint and sourcing people to get involved in the day, as well as making banners, promoting the party and stewarding on the day. We’d like to say a great big community thank you to Brenda, Dave, Sandra, Vicky, Lisa, Sam, Jo, Mervyn, Gill and Angela and to all the people who thought, ‘what a great idea to spend the afternoon with neighbours in the park’. Thanks too to True Level Media for the photographs and the support, and to Adam, a Green Space Officer at the Council for going above and beyond to make sure this party happened.

No sooner had this party ended than the party planners are back at it, getting ready for the community party, which is also the community groups annual general meeting, at St Annes Community Centre on Saturday 13th May between 12-3.  There’s no rest for the party planners and there’s always room for more! You’d be welcome to join in.