GALLERY – Spalding Flower Parade from above

It might have had a new venue and a new group of fantastic volunteers running it, but the Spalding Flower Parade still attracted people from across the country and enthused the community spirit.

Thousands came from around the country for this year’s parade which had the theme of musicals.
Work on the Castle Sports Complex meant the event had to move to Springfields which was packed with people.

“It was great to see so many people came out to support it,” said Ray Clements, one of the chief organisers on Saturday’s parade. “We’re really happy with the turn out.

“It’s a community thing that we couldn’t have done without the brilliant stewards, volunteers, those who helped with and entered floats and the sponsors.

“I can’t thank them all enough. Without the volunteers especially there would not be a parade.

“A phenomenal amount of work has gone into this and thanks go to everyone, from those that donated even a couple of hours to those who have helped build the floats over a long period.

“A big thank you to Springfields Horticultural Society who are the ones that have let us use this land for the event and have been brilliant.

“South Lincs Security and Crusader Traffic Management have been great as well and we couldn’t do it without them.”

The first Friday night of free music proved a hit too and Ray also confirmed the parade would be back for 2026 on May 10.

For the third consecutive year the event was blessed with incredible weather.

“I think it’s Steve Timewell,” said Ray of the man who led the parade after bringing it back and helping to organise it for the past two years. “We invited him back to head it again and he just always seems to bring the sunshine wherever he goes.”

The new venue led to a few issues on the day with the start being delayed by half an hour due to issues with parking stopping the floats getting going.

It led to the volunteer committee putting out a press statement.

“Did we get everything right? Of course, we didn’t,” event controller Mick Deveney said. “We have taken important lessons from this year and are implementing better practices to enhance communication and efficiency.

“We rely on the community’s involvement to ensure the parade remains an annual highlight.”

With the number of floats down, the committee statement said they’d look to ‘simplify the process’ of applying to have one, and to have a craft stall for next year event.

It also expressed thanks to the Boston & Spalding Safety Advisory Group.

A committee spokesman said: “Their tireless efforts and expertise – from emergency services personnel to council officers and event specialists – have played a crucial role in ensuring the event’s safety and success.

“The group, chaired by Nikky Ruskin, has provided invaluable support and guidance.

“As always, our priority is that everyone who attends returns home safe and well.”

Pictures by Adrian Smith.