Shefford Gala celebrates another successful event

The 2014 Shefford Gala proved to be a huge success

The event last Sunday, saw 13 different groups taking part in the parade, with many of the participants in fancy dress representing the theme of ‘Carnival’.

The parade was led by a small steam powered lorry as it made its way noisily through the town to the Robert Bloomfield Academy playing field.

All the groups were either playing instruments or had a vehicle accompanying them playing loud music.

Shefford’s Fire and Rescue appliance brought up the rear.

The parade eventually reached Robert Bloomfield Academy playing field where the arena and over 50 trade and charity stalls and attractions were set out.

The 2014 Gala was officially opened by Mr Steven Fox, Principle of the Robert Bloomfield Academy, at 12.30pm.

Around 2,000 people visited the Gala during the afternoon and watched energetic arena events which included the Shefford Majorettes, the Robert Bloomfield Academy Cheerleaders, the Biggleswade Sea Cadets and the Fusion Dance and the Shefford Dance Pod.

More restful events included a display by the British School of Falconry, and a session by the Singing Aloud Choir.

Entertainment outside the arena was provided by a range of funfair type attractions and inflatable slides.

A static display by the British School of Falconry provided an opportunity to see a range of birds of prey and to talk to their handlers.

However, the main event of the afternoon was the crowning of the 2014 Summer Princesses.

12 young ladies faced a trio of judges who faced the difficult task of picking two Princesses to attend a range of events in the town over the next 12 months.

After much deliberation Honey Wise, 11, and Grace Endersby, seven, were chosen.

The afternoon finished with a ‘drive round’ by a large number of the vintage and cherished cars that had been on display during the afternoon.

Organiser Paul Mackin said: “We would like to thank all the local businesses, organisations and individuals who provided sponsorship for this event. Without their help, putting on the Gala would not have been possible.”