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Spalding Flower Queen is putting out appeal for more people to support parade organisers




Spalding’s Flower Queen is calling on people to give their support to next year’s procession rather than making negative comments online.

Erika Yao said it was a ‘privilege’ to experience Spalding Flower Parade from her vantage point - but also wasn’t afraid of getting her hands dirty to help decorate floats in the run-up to the big day.

Sadly, the parade - which is organised by a team of volunteers - has come in for some flack following the event on Saturday (May 10) due to the length of the procession and the use of Springfields as a venue.

A royal wave from Spalding Flower Queen, Erika Yao PHOTO: CHRIS LOWNDES
A royal wave from Spalding Flower Queen, Erika Yao PHOTO: CHRIS LOWNDES

But Erika, who was supported on the day by deputy, Briony Mann, is keen to continue to work with the eight strong parade committee going forward - and is urging others to come forward.

She said: “I just didn't realise before I showed up how much work goes into the parade.

“We are not too privileged to sit around and watch other people work.

Spalding Flower Parade Queen, Erika Yao with Deputy Briony Mann
Spalding Flower Parade Queen, Erika Yao with Deputy Briony Mann

“I think it is not the responsibility boiling down to one person. It should be where the community pride lies.

“A better use of energy and time instead of typing discouraging comments is to come to the farm and help.”

Erika, who was elected during a glittering ceremony two weeks before the parade, is also bringing a collection of ideas to fulfil her role over the next year - including holding an art exhibition for youngsters.

All hail the Queen... and deputy! Erika Yao and Briony Mann. Photo: Chris Lowndes
All hail the Queen... and deputy! Erika Yao and Briony Mann. Photo: Chris Lowndes

She said: “The reason I joined isn't to have a crown on my head and just sit there. I want to be helping.

“I have various meetings arranged with the volunteers and the chairman.”

Reflecting on Saturday’s parade, Erika feels that good communication would benefit the event next year.

Flower Queen Erika Yao, 1953 queen Jean Tooley and deputy Briony Mann. Photo: Jenny Beake
Flower Queen Erika Yao, 1953 queen Jean Tooley and deputy Briony Mann. Photo: Jenny Beake

She said: “There could be a better organisation channel between the committee and the general public

“I feel that it is a good thing that people want to see it in the town and there is a desire to work towards that.

“Negative comments often come from a lack of communication or people are not fully aware of what is happening.”

Erika enjoyed waving to the crowds on board as the musical themed procession made its way from Springfields, to the town centre, West Elloe Avenue and back to the Camel Gate centre.

She said: “Being on the float I experienced the parade as a privilege - perhaps more so than being in the crowd.

“I could see families having barbecues in their yards.”

“The weather was really doing us a favour and made it so beautiful.”

Erika feels more funding would also benefit the parade’s future.

Talks having taken place between Sir John Hayes, MP South Holland and The Deepings, the parade committee, Arts Council England and Lincolnshire Community Fund.

Erika, who owns The Sessions House with partner Andrew Blach, will be hosting the thank you evening for the volunteers.

She added: “ I want the volunteers to feel appreciated and to act as an encouragement for more to join.”

“The majority of volunteers are retirees.

“But I feel like if we want to keep the parade going for the foreseeable future we need to get the younger crowds involved.”



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