Community comes together to save Festival

The b-annual festival was cancelled last year.

The Eccleshall Festival & Street Market will now take place this year thanks to a heart-warming display of community solidarity.

After the disappointing news of last year's event being cancelled, local residents contacted seasoned event organiser, Lorraine Conkey, to help orchestrate saving the hugely popular bi-annual festival.

Held every 2 years, the Eccleshall Festival has been running since 1979 although it was shelved after last year's cancellation. However, Ms.Conkey, was approached just 3 weeks ago about rescuing the event.

Drawing on her experience - and with the help of others in the community, Lorraine wasted no time rallying support through social media platforms, urging people to unite and contribute to making this year's festival an unforgettable experience.

Event organiser, Lorraine Conkey, commented:

"I've been bowled over by the response to the festival and really wish to extend my respect to those in Eccleshall for their brilliant community spirit. It's going to be an amazing day!"

This year's Eccleshall Festival and Street Market is scheduled to take place on Saturday 29th June with a diverse range of attractions planned, including: live music throughout the day, entertainment on the main stage and street dance performers.

Festival goers will also get the chance to join in with Armed Forces Day celebrations by dressing up in costumes in a show of support.



Organisers are promising a mixture of street food vendors with retail and community stalls lining the streets with a mix of products from local artisans and businesses. 

Lorraine continued:

"We have managed to add some real sparkle to this year's event, and it's humbling to see everyone pull together."

Adding to the excitement, Reverend Phillip Johnson of Holy Trinity Parish Church will kick off Eccleshall's Got Talent, in collaboration with local dance instructor Lucie Talbot. Further details on how to participate will be communicated via social media channels.

The church will also host a cake competition and there will be a limited amount of indoor stalls for those eager to showcase their hobbies.

Numerous local businesses and establishments are also taking part in the festivities, including The Ecclian, The Little George, The Royal Oak, and The Kings Arms Hotel, who will all host a variety of activities throughout the day.

Additionally, Perry's of Eccleshall, Studio 12, The Flour & Co Bakehouse, Eccleshall Tennis Club, Eccleshall Young Farmers and Three Pillars Wine will play integral roles in making the event a success.

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling cricket match between Eccleshall Cricket Club's 2nd XI and Sandon, commencing at 12 noon, with cream tea available for spectators throughout the afternoon. Furthermore, EURO 2024 matches will be broadcast on the big screen at 5pm and 8pm, ensuring that sports enthusiasts don't miss out on the action.

Children of all ages are invited to partake in the festivities, with special attractions including a Paw Patrol selfie opportunities, bouncy castles and a small funfair. 

In a bid to amplify the event's reach and coverage, Eccleshall Festival & Street Market has proudly partnered with Vibe 1, and Breakfast presenter, Stu Haycock, will be on hand throughout the day.