Warwickshire News Mine

Building on last year’s plans, two local choirs, Karousels and Corino invite visitors to a free pre-party concert at the Church of Our Lady and St Wulstan’s on Friday 14th July, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.  No tickets are being issued, but turn up early to be sure of getting in.

Following this, on Saturday 15th July at the recreation ground, off Park Lane the `Party in the Park’ will feature a wide choice of music styles.  Local bands and singers Amy Clennell, Alan Clennell (as Buddy Holly), Ben Clempson (Folk Singer), Nu -Jazz Septet (Jazz & Latin), The Royal Finger Puppets (Hottest Young Band), The Lost Boys (Southam’s Cover Band) will all perform with Party Express closing the evening again this year.

Performances will start at 3:30pm with a fireworks finale at 10.30pm.

During the event children’s entertainment including face painting, hair braiding and a magician will keep younger family members happy.  Burgers, ice cream and milkshakes made by Napton water buffalo farmer Roger Alsop will be among the attractions.  Organisers invite you to bring your picnic and enjoy the whole day (no BBQs please).

Some funding is already in place for this year’s Party in the Park, but contributions are still needed to hit organisers’ target and make the event happen.  So far donations have been received from local businesses, Southam Town Council, Vision 4 Southam (Market Towns Partnership) and an application for funds will be considered by Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s Dasset Area Committee on 27th June.

Kate Lewis from Warwickshire County Council’s Regeneration Projects team has been working closely with organisers to support the event.

Nick Chimes, who will be performing with covers band Party Express, said the band had the idea of a festival for Southam some time ago, but could not devote enough time to it.

Mr Chimes added: "Party in the Park was an outstanding success last year. People like the idea of music festivals, especially ones for families and the whole age range. It has developed well. Lots of people have given us so much support, given that all the acts will be performing for no fee whatsoever.”

Organisers hope that eventually the concert will become an annual event for the whole town, drawing in performers from home-grown talent, with events going on in lots of different venues.

Programmes will be available. To help cover the costs there is a suggested donation of £1, which includes entry into a draw for a choice of prizes.

Link to WCC