Met. office weather warnings for heavy rain failed to dampen the spirits of merry makers at Sunday’s Picnic in the Park at Gostrey Meadow.
Picnickers were transported back to the heady days of the 1960s with live music from The Replays, The TR5s, Farnham Music and Drama and Jen Merchant. The line up of local talent was complemented by Hey Dude, a top UK touring Beatles tribute band.
The free, family-friendly event was organised by Farnham Town Council and was officially opened by the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwaker. He said: “After months of restrictions, it was such a tonic to be a part of this uplifting community event.
“To keep people safe, the event was run at 50% capacity. This meant there was plenty of room for a lovely open layout and for people to mill around the stalls and side activities whilst maintaining social distance.
“The music was excellent and Hey Dude went down a storm – the band was excellent and gave very convincing renditions of many favourite Beatles’ songs!”
Younger members of the audience had plenty to keep them occupied too. The New Ashgate Gallery led a flower power workshop which saw children making paper flowers and decorating the bandstand with their colourful efforts.
The Museum of Farnham was also present and had a stall to celebrate its 60th anniversary.
Picnic in the Park was sponsored by Kidd Rapinet Solicitors. Managing Partner Emma Rowe said: “It is an absolute delight to be able to support Farnham Town Council’s summer programme of events. Occasions such as Picnic in the Park and Music in the Meadow provide a wonderful, safe way for people to enjoy some of the pleasures we took for granted pre-COVID.
“I hope that everybody who went along to Picnic in the Park had a great time and that many more will get to enjoy a Music in the Meadow concert this summer.”
Music in the Meadow takes place every Sunday afternoon from 3-5pm until 5 September. Forever Freddie – a Freddie Mercury tribute act will be the next band to entertain on Sunday 4 July.
Councillor Pat Evans, Lead Member for Tourism and Events says: “Although we very much hope that COVID restrictions will soon come to an end, for the time being, the number of people who can attend Music in the Meadow is restricted so anybody wishing to come along will need to reserve a space.”
See details about how to book and a schedule showing the line-up for the rest of the Music in the Meadow season. It is worth noting that spaces may be available on the day even if the event is shown as fully booked.
The busy summer events programme will lead into the Food Festival on 26 September.
