Handful of spectators attend event in Stratford
THE Civic Sunday Service parade in Stratford is under review after last Sunday’s event attracted only a handful of spectators.
Unlike the Shakespeare Birthday Celebrations and Remembrance Sunday parades, Stratford Town Council’s parade from the town hall to Holy Trinity doesn’t appear to attract a substantial audience despite town councillors walking the route in traditional costume accompanied by marching band. However, it does involve road closures and is thought to cost about two to three thousand pounds to stage.
Last Sunday’s parade was a colourful affair attended by the new mayor Stratford, Cllr Jason Fojtik, civic dignitaries and guests and was blessed with brilliant spring sunshine but the cost and road closures – which could impact nearby businesses – might be subject to a re-think by town councillors.
A comment from Stratford Town Council was issued, yesterday (Wednesday).
“The town council is currently addressing the increased expenses associated with various events, including the civic parades, but our main priority in any event remains the safety of all individuals involved. The matter is scheduled to be reviewed by the Council's Civic Heritage Committee at its next meeting.
“As regards the parade route, it is important to note that whilst the roads are designated for closure during the event, every effort is made by the event supervisors to implement a rolling closure system in order to minimise disruption. For example, Sheep Street and High Street are only closed for a short period during the parade, rather than for the entire three-hour duration.”
