Spalding NHS worker says Deputy Flower Queen win came at the ‘perfect time’
Spalding’s new Deputy Flower Queen says the achievement came at the ‘perfect time’ – following a run of setbacks for her family.
Briony Mann, will be joining Erika Yao, the Flower Queen for 2025, at this year’s Spalding Flower Parade on Saturday, May 10.
Following an evening of glitz and glam at Springfields Events and Conference Centre in Spalding the duo were crowned after impressing the judges.
Briony, who is originally from Sheffield, had never watched a flower parade in the town until she moved to the area and attended her first event in 2023 with her husband. She said: “I thought the parade was so nice and so much fun when I first watched it.
“I thought it really represented the difference in the community and it was lovely to see the different international groups, dance schools and theatre groups from the area – it gave a lovely community feel where everyone belongs.”
After dealing with a number of illnesses in the family, Briony says her new role has been a timely boost.
“My parents are currently looking after my grandad, 93, who is frail and not in good health. It’s a bit 50/50 if they will be able to come along to the parade on the day, but they are hoping to watch it online if they can’t make it,” she added.
“My brother-in-law is also in hospital at the moment after recovering from meningitis – we nearly lost him.
“So this happening has come at a welcome time for me. It’s been a stressful and emotional time for us and it’s been nice to have a bit of a lift.
“When it was announced that I would be the Flower Queen’s deputy I was so excited.
“It was a really special evening and it was nice to be with all of the other contestants, meet the panel and behind the scenes crew and enjoy a cheeky glass of wine after the excitement and a bit of a dance.
“I’m really excited to be working alongside Erika. We clicked quite well on the night and it will be nice to get to know here more.”
The royal duo will lead this year’s parade on a float and will also represent the community at various events across South Holland until early 2026.
Briony, who works as an administrator at Beechfield Medical Centre in Spalding, has received lots of support from her colleagues and hopes to spot them in the crowd on the day.
She added: “I’m feeling really excited about going on the float and going through town.
“I have had so much support from work and lots of my colleagues have said they will be there on the day – everyone is so happy for me.”
