Festival returns with host of events

As the country starts reintroducing activities as Covid-19 restrictions start to lift, the festival returns with a host of attractions.

“There will be around 90 village scarecrows across Thorp Arch, Boston Spa and Clifford,” said Co-ordinator Jeff Newton.

“The theme this year is Superheroes and Disney Characters. They will be on display from July 3 until the end of the festival (July 11).”

Last year saw only the scarecrow trail take place as Covid-19 restrictions prevented any other festival features taking place.

But this year a full programme is planned with highlights including classic cars and a party in the park.

Mr Newton added: “On Friday there will be fitness classes in the morning and afternoon.

“In the evening the village will be alive with a music concert in the village hall, doors open 7.30pm.”

The fun continues on the Saturday with the Yorkshire Terrier Ride, setting off from the village on the 100 mile route around the county.

Soon after, Classic Cars will start arriving in the village and after being on display in Church Fields they will do a tour of the Wharfe valley and return to Stables Lane Park in the afternoon.

The village hall will host a Shop Local event and plant sale.

Church Fields will host a family fitness session and St Mary’s Church will hold a Children’s Activity afternoon.

There will be a crown green bowls match, lawn tennis and croquet, a Heritage Walk, theatre workshop, cake stalls and a raffle.

On Sunday, in addition to the morning and evening Church services, there will a Party in the Park on Stables Lane Park with many activities scheduled including more bowls and tennis coaching and a big screen will be in the Park showing the men’s tennis final.

There will also be a warm up session and 2K Fun Run on Church Fields.

The village hall will have a Bake Off and a Kiddy Cook Shop and Walton Art Group will hold an exhibition.

In the afternoon green fingered residents will again be showing off their gardens around the village.

Mr Newton added: “With entertainers in Millennium Gardens on Saturday and Sunday and Street Food supplied by local restaurants, the whole village will be alive and welcoming all weekend.

“Unfortunately Jazz in the Spa is not planning to return until after the Festival.”

Scarecrow trail maps (£2) will be available from June 26 from Yeadon’s and Costcutter.