Over the weekend, Holmes Chapel played host to a Summer Celebration.
It started on the Friday night, when Holmes Chapel Parish Council, with support from the Holmes Chapel Partnership, organised and funded the closure of London Road which goes through the centre of our historic village. The Heritage Jazz Quartet and Dane Sound Radio entertained the crowds, with food and drinks available from the wealth of independent businesses that characterise Holmes Chapel.
St Luke's Church offered sell-out tours of the Belfry, Clockworks Room and Ringing Room for a small fee which will go towards the upkeep of the bells and clockworks.
With the sun shining, it was truly a magical summer evening! The Parish Council was delighted to see so many residents out in the village enjoying an evening celebrating what a great community we have. It was fabulous to see people of all ages dancing on London Road and thoroughly enjoying what was a great atmosphere. Our grateful thanks to all those who gave up their Friday evening to steward the event, especially our local fire officers for providing first aid support.
Cllr Diane Tams, Vice-Chairman for Holmes Chapel Parish Council and who came up with the idea to incorporate a Friday night celebration into the Summer Weekend says:
"It was lovely to see so many people, of all ages, turn out to enjoy spending time in our beautiful village centre. The sun shone down as the jazz band played and Chris Appleton from Dane Sound Radio played requests all evening. The pubs and restaurants did a roaring trade and the atmosphere was buzzing as friends and neighbours gathered. I was delighted the church belfry was especially opened for guided tours. This type of event reaffirms to me why I am so proud of our village and the volunteers who make events like this possible."
Saturday night of the Summer Celebration saw a fabulous sell-out concert from the Holmes Chapel Chorus entitled 'A Night at the Musicals'. Attendees were invited to bring a picnic to enjoy in the interval - all of which added to a great atmosphere.
Yet another blue sky day on Sunday for the annual Village Fair organised by the Vic Club. Crowds descended to enjoy various stalls, dog show, games, rides, family fun and entertainment, including a community art exhibition organised by our very own Youth Council!
It was a truly fantastic way to round off the weekend celebrating community here in Holmes Chapel!
Photography by Gail Griggs