Spalding Flower Parade fundraisers name teddy after former organiser and bring smoke-breathing dragon to Spalding
Fundraisers have named a giant teddy bear after the former organiser of Spalding Flower Parade — and will be taking a smoke-breathing dragon float on tour to raise funds for the showpiece event.
Stephen Timewell brought back the popular parade in 2023 and committee members have named a giant teddy bear after him - which can be found at Spalding Library.
This year’s parade takes place at Springfields Event and Conference Centre in May and fundraising has begun in earnest - with shoppers able to meet a smoke-breathing dragon in Market Place tomorrow (Saturday, February 1).
David Mustoe, committee member said: “The teddy is called Mr Timewell in honour of Stephen and everything he achieved,
“He left us a real legacy.
“The dragon has been on our floats for the last two years and is really popular - he roars and breathes smoke.”
After making the decision to bring back the parade, Mr Timewell then set a precedent with his fundraising skills.
In 2023 he raised £125,000 and last year £85,000 in order to fund the parade.
Mr Mustoe added: “We all get a real buzz from fundraising.
“Our aim is to meet as many people as we can and create interest.
“I love it.”
In less than 100 days the first float will lead this year’s parade and raising funds is an ongoing venture - including bingo and quiz nights - and collection buckets for donations.
Mr Timewell the teddy will be at the library for the whole of February and youngsters can enter a colouring competition there too.
There is a bingo night at Pinchbeck Village Hall tonight (Friday 31), with a further date at Spalding Services Club on Monday, February 24.
The next quiz night is Friday, February 21
Visit here https://spaldingflowerparade.org.uk/ for further details
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