THE alternative Bandstand event defied the weather to prosper in its alternative venue, St Stephen’s Church.
As 50mph winds battered the town centre the doors of the Church on the Green swung open to offer warmth and shelter on a blustery day.
And what fun and laughter everyone had.
This month’s event was Active@the Bandstand and there was plenty to enjoy for all.
Full marks too for borough Mayor Councillor Roger Bennett who, just a month after a hip replacement, proved a great sport, particularly when one of the entertainers went to sit on his lap.
Nat Lunatrick tricks certainly had the audience laughing and enjoying his skills on his rather remarkable unicycle with three wheels while Juanita’s Hoola Hoop display and workshop had a good crowd showing their skills.
There were also plenty of traditional activities with funds raised going towards major renovation work on St Stephen’s.
Meanwhile away from Church Green the Kingfisher Shopping Centre played host to a second part of the bandstand event, welcoming Jump Rope UK who did a mesmerising display in Milward Square outside Coffee No1.
The day was rounded off in song with local artist Alan Mason enchanting the audience in the church.
Sue Yeng, who helped organise the event said: “We couldn’t help the weather but everyone, from the Kingfisher Shopping Centre to the St Stephen Church community rallied round and I think we all, including the performers, had a wonderful time.
“I’d also like to thank the volunteers from the National Citizens Service who helped us out and who’ll be hard at work at the Morton Stanley Festival this weekend.
“We have been so impressed by these young people.”
