Great Harwood group plan street party for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

The Great Harwood Civic Society has announced preliminary plans for the event, which will take place on Queen Street on Sunday 5 June.

Peter Holden, president of The Great Harwood Civic Society, said he is “excited” about the event and expects between 2000 - 3000 people to attend the street party.

The theme of the event will be focused on the “momentous world events that have occurred during the 70 years of the Queen’s reign”.

Musical entertainment, a large parade, a fairground and more are planned for the day of celebrations, which will replace their annual Charter Fair which is traditionally held in August. 

Historic Great Harwood Charter Fair in 2018

Peter said: “The plans are to have a grand parade with local dignitaries to open the fair.

“It will be quite a spectacular occasion. Parade from bottom of Queen Street all the way to town gate,

“The designs should reflect some of the notable events of the Queen’s reign.”

School children will be invited to join in the opening procession, which will start in Queen Street, wearing costumes or hats of their own designs.

The epic event will have something for everybody to enjoy, including jugglers, stilt walkers, a magician, a caricaturist, fairground rides for youngsters and music bands.

“So far the reaction has been pretty good,” Peter said. “A few voluntary groups have been in touch and I am planning to invite 30-40 of them to help out.

“We are also hoping to get in touch with as many local people and bands as possible, so they can provide musical entertainment throughout the afternoon”.

More details about the parade will be revealed closer to the time – but Peter hopes people will come down for a fun day out and also to support local businesses.

He said: “The country will be geared up to party for the four day celebrations – we hope people can come and enjoy themselves and also spend some money at the voluntary stalls and with local businesses.”

After making the announcement on social media, many people were eager to express their excitement and reminisce about previous street parties held in the area.

Susan Smith said: “Fab news. Looking forward to it”.

Another person said: “Marvellous - something good to look forward to.”

A third said: “I remember pushing my mum in her wheelchair up and down Queen street for the 2012 Diamond Jubilee street party.

“Both mum, I and the wheelchair were all trimmed up. Fabulous. Well sorted Peter and the Civic Society.”

Volunteer groups and others who would like to set up a stall may apply for a site to the Civic Society President, Peter Holden at: p.holden3@btinternet.com.