Thumbs up for the new Festival

An estimated 25,000 people - mostly families - flocked  to the first ever St. Helens Festival, enjoying the sunshine, dodging the showers and giving the two day event the thumbs up.

Despite having to battle against the elements on wet and boggy ground, the event at Sherdley Park went smoothly with attractions, traders and exhibitors being able to access the site. And staff in St. Helens Council’s Festival office received numerous positive comments about the re-vamped event from organisations including voluntary and arts groups and sports clubs.

Saints and international player Jon Wilkin’s rugby league tournaments proved a big crowd puller where the Mayor Cllr Sheila Seddon, who officially opened the Festival, presented the prizes.  Children enjoyed the paddle boats, beach and crazy bears show and many Council services and voluntary groups showcased their work.  The school meals team scored a bit hit as they handed out tasty samples of healthy snacks including a chocolate cake containing beetroot and a novel cake and courgette combination. So popular were the cakes that many people asked for recipes.

The new Arts and Heritage marquee proved popular with many visitors who took a journey back in time by enjoying video reels of footage of St.Helens from many years ago.  A model railway and vintage cars were among other attractions.

Creative St.Helens visitors were treated to some wacky and weird attractions like the Big Heads, Elvis on Stilts, and some of the funky street theatre really got the tongues wagging. The popular Wall of Death in the Youth Quarter was a sell out, improved signage helped people to easily get around the Festival site and non-stop music from the Pavilion Stage drew in the crowds.

Radio Merseyside broadcast live over the two days with interviews from a range of participants including Cllr Wally Ashcroft, the Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Heritage and Sport, one of the event organisers Suzanne Davies, traders and Arts service staff.  An amazing butterfly shaped firework display, dancing  to the sounds of ical music mix, brought the two day event to  a spectacular close.

Cllr Ashcroft said:  “The Festival was tremendous and proved a big hit with lots of people who gave some very interesting and positive feedback.  Saturday’s sunshine, after days of bad weather, brought out the crowds who were not deterred by Sunday’s downpour which gave way to brighter weather later on. A big thank you goes to all sponsors, companies and voluntary groups who contributed to the success of the Council's first ever Festival of this kind.”

The Mayor Cllr Sheila Seddon and Mayoress Mrs Ann Forrest were prepared for all weathers!

Help will include access to a personal advisor to maintain a “pathway” plan and wider support including contributions towards expenses and accommodation. Care leavers will, in effect, be provided with the support normally given by parents. This support will be provided until the young person is in their 20s.

Ends

Press release issued: July 7 2007