A magical day was enjoyed by Spalding Flower Queen Becs Roberts and Deputy Flower Queen Demi Fontaine Gilchrist
‘A magical day’ was the verdict of Spalding Flower QueenBecs Roberts on this year’s parade.
Becs waved and smiled to the thousands of people who lined Spalding’s streets to cheer as the Queens float made its way through the town.
The 36-year-old Pinchbeck mum has had a whirlwind few months after being chosen to represent the town and its celebrated parade during the judging event earlier this year.
Speaking shorting after stepping off the famous horse and crown themed float she shared with Deputy Flower Queen Demi Fontaine Gilchrist, Becs said the event had meant a lot to her.
She said: "My favourite moment was when we first moved off and everyone started clapping.
“Another moment was when Jeff Woods (Pavanotti) gave us three cheers.
“It has been magical and the weather is gorgeous.
“I can't wait to see what I can do for Spalding in my role as Flower Queen.”
And while parade day may be over, Becs still has a full year of events ahead – including representing the town in the Jersey Battle of Flowers Parade.
She said: “I'm really excited to go to Jersey.”
The day also meant a lot to Deputy Flower Queen Demi, who has been using her role to raise awareness of hidden disabilities.
Demi suffers from anti –NMDAR encephalitis, which affects her brain and presented itself when she was 17.
An important moment for Demi was when the float went past her mum Denise Hutchinson, dad Livingston Gilchrist, sister Montana Gilchrist, partner Joshua Campion and his mum Lizzie in Halmer Gate.
She said: "When we drove past my house I cried. My dad was sitting on the wall watching along with my family and it means so much to me.
“My sister and Nan shouted Queen!
“It means so so much.
“I had a chat with my dad and he said I am so proud of you , you have come so far since your brain injury. I am proud of myself too for coming this far and not letting it define me.”
While family played an important part in her special day, Demi also enjoyed seeing the spectators.
She said: “My favourite moment was when we got into town and I saw the massive crowd of people.
“I thought ‘oh my gosh this parade is massive’ - people come from far and wide.
“It is a day to remember.
“It made me realise how popular the parade is - this parade means business.”
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