Spalding Flower Parade’s former organiser Stephen Timewell makes an emotional farewell to South Holland

The man who brought back Spalding Flower Parade is making an emotional farewell to the area.

Stephen Timewell revived the showpiece event in 2023 following a ten year break.

Thousands of people were once again drawn back to the town to watch the procession of floats, marching bands and community groups make their way through Spalding - and since then it has grown in popularity thanks to Mr Timewell’s efforts.

But today (Thursday) Mr Timewell will be moving away from the area — and his home in West Pinchbeck — with wife Sandra to move to Dorset to look after his mum.

He said: “This has been our home for a long time and we will miss it but I will still be involved with the flower parade and won't break the connection with the town and the people.”

Mr Timewell leapt into action to start work on bringing back the flower parade in 2022 after people expressed disappointment in Spalding’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and called for the return of the parade.

After making the decision to bring back the parade, he then set to making it possible and set a precedent with his fundraising skills.

In 2023 he raised £125,000 and this year £85,000 in order to fund the parade.

Through quizzes, summer fetes, donations and numerous events throughout the year he was able to steer his group of volunteers in pulling off the huge logistical event.

And the hard work was all worth it when the 2023 parade took place with floats including past Flower Queens, Ambassador Star Perry and deputy Holly Kendrick, Moulton’s windmill themed float, a ‘nightclub’ float, characters from Star Wars, dancers and Pinchbeck WI.

The hard work continued to ensure the 2024 parade was a big success but this time Mr Timewell was able to lead the procession while wearing a ringmaster’s outfit.

Sadly, Mr Timewell’s dad died earlier this and this move to Dorset will mean he can be nearer his mum - although he intends to keep a close eye on what is happening in Spalding and still play a vital role.

He said: “I am not walking away from the flower parade or my home town and I hope that people get behind the committee and give them 100 percent.

“I will also be keeping a close watch on local issues and making sure that the town improves.

“The show will go on in Spalding next year and hopefully forever.”

The history of the procession dates back to the 1920s and the first official tulip parade was held in 1959.

Within a few years it had become known worldwide and its legacy hopes to be continued.

Next year’s flower parade takes place on May 10 and starts at Springfields Events and Conference Centre.

Earlier this week Mr Timewell received two awards at the BBC Radio Lincolnshire Make A Difference Awards in Lincoln.

Visit the website for further information https://www.spaldingflowerparade.org.uk/

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