A grant from Southampton City Council, plus the return of Park Lives to organise sports and games combined with the good weather to make this one of the best picnics we have had. About 88 people attended, although not all at the same time! Badge making and crafts in the new gazebo was such a popular activity that volunteers were still trying to clear away the paper, glue, scissors and badge making machine while children were still trying to make more badges….
The jazz band returned once again, and provided music which set the mood.
Gingham table cloth portrait frame provided by The Great Get Together created a number of fun photos! The Great Get Together is an initiative of the Jo Cox Foundation, set up in memory of the late Jo Cox MP, killed by a hate crime three years ago. In her maiden speech she said ‘We have more in common than that which divides us’ and ‘More in Common’ is the motto of the Great Get Together, which seeks to bring communities together through street parties and picnics in parks organised by local people.
Councillor Dave Shields, Cabinet member with responsibility for health, wellbeing and leisure on Southampton City Council came with a bottle of Cava to share.
Local Bargate Councillor John Noon, an old friend of the Park, also came with food to share.
Everyone joined in the fun, while Chair of FTQP Irene MacWilliam showed Councillor Steve Leggett the work volunteer gardeners had done in partnership with Southampton City Council to make the park ready for the picnic.
Friends and neighbours, young and old, joined Committee members to share their picnics and chat.
Families enjoyed the many activities organised by Park Lives, who had come along to make the Great Get Together a huge success for the second year running.
Friends of Town Quay Park Chair, Irene MacWilliam sharing a Great Get Together gingham photo frame with Councillor Steve Leggett, Cabinet Member with the responsibility for Parks.
Steve Leggett commented ‘I was impressed with the way that the local community has come together to organise this, and particularly how the guests reflect the diverse nature of Bargate, with young and old both sharing in this event. I also commend the Friends of Town Quay Park for working with local businesses to fund the new Woodland Glade.’