21 February 2023

The Spalding flower parade

Tanglewood Care Homes are overjoyed to be taking part in the coming year’s Spalding Flower Parade. The Flower Parade holds fond memories for residents and team members, who looked forward the annual event for much of their lives until it was sadly stopped 10 years ago.

In its day, the parade was a huge event that ran for 55 years. People from all over the UK and the world came to witness the occasion, which was famed for its elaborate and skilfully crafted floats that were decorated flowers. Local people were saddened when it ceased to exist due to a lack of funding.

However, after the decade long hiatus, the Flower Parade is back thanks to a campaign instigated by journalist, and now District Councillor, Stephen Timewell. Stephen’s campaign grew from a simple comment he made on social media that inspired the community, and led to the Parade revival.

Tanglewood’s float will be decorated in flowers that have been knitted, crocheted and crafted by residents, friends, families and neighbours across our ten care homes. We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community, who have also supported us with materials and equipment, including BMR Transport who have loaned us a trailer, and Steve Timewell, who organised the tractor that will be driven by our very own Graham Hart who is the maintenance officer at Cedar Falls.

This is the first time our care homes have been involved in a parade, and we couldn’t be more excited. Every home is included, and hand-made flowers appear almost daily. We are truly grateful for everybody’s enthusiasm and support. It is amazing – roll on 13^th May 2023!

Cedar Falls resident Ann Roles said, “I remember, in 1976 it was so hot that everyone kept fainting and passing out. Living on a farm near Springfields meant we were lucky enough to have the Parade pass by – we would watch from the roadside. It was that year that we helped St. John Ambulance by offering drinks to people who were sat on the floats. Other people would also come and ask us for drinks – it was great we could help out. This will be good for Spalding, and put us right back on the map!”

Cedar Falls resident Kate Pitcher said, “My memory is not so good these days, but I do remember lots of people in the town. Pubs’ opening times were extended, and you could go in the pubs to get a cup of tea too. I love the idea of the Parade coming back, and I hope I’m able to go into town to watch it.”

Deputy Manager Susan Wilson said, “We are all so thrilled that the Parade is back – our residents and team members are so excited to be involved. It’s amazing that will have our own float – it’s something that I have wanted to do since I was younger. This is a dream come true!”