On Saturday 9th July, South Road residents held their 9th annual Street Party.
The first took place in 2012 stemming from a government initiative called ‘The Big Lunch’ which encouraged everyone to meet up with their neighbours to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee of 60 years on the throne. Due to the Covid pandemic they had to cancel their parties in 2020 and 2021, so this one was planned to be bigger and better than ever, especially as it was to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
With the road closed from 8am, work soon began on hanging the bunting and South Road street party banner. Children began cycling and scooting up and down and chalking the road with pictures. Later in the morning children set up their stalls for residents to support, with games, lucky dips, homemade lemonade, brownies, necklaces and bracelets, and a selfie opportunity with a life-sized picture of the Queen, as well as selling off their preloved toys, games, books and clothes. All money raised will be sent to support Stonebridge City Farm.
Residents then brought out their tables, chairs and parasols to enjoy the sunshine and neighbourly company over a bring and share lunch, with a delicious spread of sweet and savoury dishes on offer. This was followed by Freddie The Magician, who entertained everyone with jokes and clever tricks using volunteers from the audience. Children enjoyed cooling off in a water sprinkler and then had a big water fight. Then everyone was treated to an informative Aikido demonstration by resident Tad, with many of the children from the street participating in the display.
Sports and games took place at the far end of the street and ice lollies were served before the ever-popular children’s limbo competition began. Following this, the children decorated wooden spoons to look like themselves and took part in the children’s quiz, identifying places on the road from pictures.
Whilst the children were then treated to a tea of pizzas, fish fingers and chips, the adults did a Jubilee quiz about the Queen, followed by an entertaining, impromptu fashion show organised by the children using lengths of donated material!
After prizes were handed out for the quizzes and competitions, the younger families left for bed, and the dance party began until the 10pm curfew! Everyone seemed to have a brilliant day together and special thanks goes out to the organising team for putting on such a variety of entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
Visit our website to see more photographs of the fantastic day!
