Welcome to the official website of the

GOOSNARGH & WHITTINGHAM WHITSUNTIDE FESTIVAL  

This page is dedicated to the 2006 Whitsuntide Festival, which took place on Saturday 3rd June.

[Fancy Dress & Float Winners]

Key event was the crowning of Daisy, the new Festival Queen for 2006.

The day was a huge success, many thanks to all who took part - it wouldn't have been the same without you, however small or large role you played.

The day was it's usual spectacle of sights and sounds, and this year the weather was absolutely fantastic. A huge crowd watched the event, even though it coincided with England's first World Cup friendly match.

Musically there was the Bolton Scottish Pipe Band and the Longridge Band providing accompaniment to the maypole dancers. For the slightly more laid back there was the Eclipse Parade Band and Phat Jazz.

The Festival started with a new entry for 2006, as the Longridge Gymnastics Club proved that diamonds are definitely a girl's best friend. This was followed by the usual Maypole Dancing and Senior Dancers' performances outside the Grapes and Bushells. The decorated floats lined up on Goosnargh Lane, whilst those in fancy dress assembled in the playground along with the Queens and their retinues.

Visiting to see and support the event were new Mayor of Preston Councillor Tyson.

The parade, led by the Cub Scouts and the Flower Girls, wound it's way down the traditional route of Church Lane, Whittingham Lane and Cumeragh Lane into the hospital grounds, stopping to allow the Maypole Dancers to perform once more on Whittingham Lane.

Highlight of the day was Kirsty handing over her duties to Daisy, the new Queen for 2006-2007. The crowning and Queen's speeches were followed by the Maypole and Gymnasts, prize giving for the floats, fancy dress and decorated houses and shops, and drawing of the raffle.

The afternoon was rounded off with the family tea in the Village Hall. Many thanks to all the ladies who worked so hard to prepare for, run and clean up after the tea.

The final Festival Event of the day was the Family Disco in the Village Hall. As the evening drew on a good number came in to join in the fun.

Many, Many thanks to all who took part in any way, large or small. Our unique Festival can only take place if people keep supporting it, and we are more than grateful that they do.

We hope Daisy has a wonderful year, she'll have lots to do during the months of her reign, starting off with her appearances at the other local village parades and field days. She's planning to take over her webpage from Kirsty, so keep an eye on what she's getting up to.

Check out all the photos on our Photo Gallery page.

Floats and Fancy Dress Winners:

Many thanks to our judges Mr & Mrs Andrew & Chris Baxendale.

[Back to Top]

This site is designed for viewing at 800x600 or higher resolution.