‘Overjoyed’ Spalding resident can’t wait for Flower Parade

The memories will come flooding back for many as the Flower Parade passes through this weekend.

And Jean Laver – who says she is ‘overjoyed’ by the event’s return – will be no exception, pledging to be the main ‘cheerleader’

“It brings back memories of when we threw pennies at the floats and the children crawled on the floor to pick them up, it was so lovely,” said Jean, a resident of Glenholme Halmer Court who is counting down to Saturday.

“The beautiful flowers, it was just amazing. And the (flower) Queen and how beautiful she was.

“I’m very happy happy to see it back. I’m too excited.”

Jean, who turns 90 next month, moved to Long Sutton from Middlesex six decades ago and – after arriving in South Holland – fell in love with the parade.

“At the time used to come and sit and wait and wait and wait for it to come through,” she added.

“I'm overjoyed it’s back. It’s wonderful.”

A number of fun and fundraising events planned at Glenholme Halmer Court on Saturday will make the day extra special for Jean, who is planning on making a posie to wave at the passing parade.

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“I want everyone outside so I can be in the middle of them all, give them a hug and say ‘this is the flower parade, I want you to enjoy it’. I’ll be cheerleader,” said Jean.

“I’ll be partying all day. It was so fabulous to see the flower parades and the chuildren’s faces brighten up as the floats come by. It’s amazing.

“People here are excited, and if they’re not I’ll make sure they’re excited. I’ll get them going.”