Pumpkin fun makes busy Spalding town centre ‘the place to be’

Spalding town centre was a hive of activity on Saturday as the autumnal activities continued in the Pumpkin Festival.

Attractions included live entertainment, ride-on tractors, extra market stalls and Morris dancing.

The cast of this year’s South Holland Centre pantomime - Cinderella - were on hand to greet people while youngsters could have a go at a number of games.

Pumpkin and chicken wire structures made by artist Jonathan Nicholls were moved from Ayscoughfee Gardens to Bridge Street to create ‘Pumpkin Street’ for the day too.

Broad Street Methodist Church also held a coffee morning with free craft activities plus more in the South Holland Centre.

Coun Gary Taylor said: “It has been great to bring the community together at these events.

“I think we achieved the goal of making the town buzzing, vibrant and the place to be.

“We want people to support the market on a Saturday and it’s nice to know that businesses were busy.

“I hope all traders feel positive.

“We’ve made good progress as we’ve come out of lockdown and are in a far better place than we could have been in terms of closed shops.”

South Holland District Council Chairman Paul Redgate added: “It was phenomenal to see so many people in town.

“Once again, this shows that when events are put on people do come out and support them.

“I hope this has given some encouragement to the market traders and that people now continue to support them.”

Crew members from Spalding Fire Station were there to let visitors have a look at their engine while Flower Parade organiser Stephen Timewell showcased one of his floats.

He raised more than £500 for the cause through his stands at the Light Night and in town.

He said: “We had so much fun and loved meeting everyone.

"I cannot thank everyone enough for their support and donations."