Great day for a picnic

AS THE SUNSHINE beamed down on Queen’s Park in Loughborough, families flocked to the annual Picnic in the Park.

The fun and free event organised by Charnwood Arts was a “fantastic day” with a host of entertainment, art activities and stalls.

The picnic began at noon as Mayor of Charnwood Coun Pauline Ranson took part in the grand opening which was followed by dazzling musical and dance performances by the East Midlands Caribbean Carnival Arts Network’s national tour, Taking Flight.

Other performers that took to the stage included Ska Amanga and renowned opera singer Maria Veretenina.

Alongside them were Aisha and Kieran, Hum Hey Hindustani plus the remarkable sound of Kelley’s Heroes.

There was plenty to get your legs moving and those dance moves popping as the morris group The Way of the Wyrd made a welcome return as did the exuberant R&R Productions.

While those who were looking for a good old belly laugh were entertained by the daftness of Maynard Flip Flap - first prize winner at Antwerp Street Festival and the reigning Fool of Muncaster - who had people’s sides splitting.

This year’s Picnic took place on Saturday, June 10, and one of the organisers, Kev Ryan of Charnwood Arts, said that it was the first time in four years that they had sunshine for the giant picnic!

He told the Echo: “It was a fantastic day and everyone that I spoke to was having a good time. There were tonnes of families there and lots of great stalls, and the performers and entertainment were superb. It was a great day had by all, and it was even better to have the sunshine this year! It is always a lovely event but when the sun is out it is even better!”

Entertainer Sally Renshaw who was a big hit with her Bubblology at Picnic in the Park. Photo courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Pictured are children taking part in retro space hopper races organised by youth project Above and Beyond, at Picnic at the Park in Queen’s Park, Loughborough. Picture courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Pictured are R&R Dancers from Leicester at Picnic at the Park in Queen’s Park, Loughborough. Picture courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Pictured are crowds at Picnic in the Park. Photo courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Pictured are group Ancestors Music and Dance performance. Picture courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Ska Amanga with children from Maria’s Singers. Picture courtesy of Charnwood Arts.

Mayor of Charnwood Coun Pauline Ranson having fun as a Caribbean carnival dancer. Picture courtesy of Charnwood Arts.