Heritage Day Report

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The Heritage Fun Day celebrations on the Wharf at Walton were a great success again this year, despite a very depressing weather forecast which led to a lower attendance. In fact, apart from a damp start when setting up in the morning the weather improved steadily through the day leaving the event bathed in brilliant sunshine!

The Cobham Brass Band entertained the crowd with a variety of music ending up with a reminder that Saturday was also the Last Night of the Proms. There was also entertainment from “All the T’s” Jazz Group and Mr Wizard with his Punch and Judy Show  proved popular with all ages. The Fast and Loose Theatre Company also provided Dance and Drama along with the presence of a Dragon weaving through the crowds.

New this year was  a specially commissioned film “Memories of Walton” which was shown to the public for the first time using the lower deck of a splendidly restored Routemaster Bus parked on the wharf, and playing to capacity audiences.

Also for the first time the River Thames Boat Project vessel The Richmond Venturer visited the Wharf with a group of Young Carers on board. The boat was open to the Public to view and received many visitors during its stay.

As well as  all the usual stalls from local organisations and Charities, the Young’s Shire Horse and Dray gave rides around the town and Shrapnel’s battery provided the opportunity to fire a musket or a cannon. There was a welcome visit from Dominic Raab our new M.P. As usual the Mayor toured the stalls and was then taken on a river trip aboard the Jolly Brit (ex. Royal Yacht Britannia Jolly boat).

This event continues to be a popular one, drawing the Community together to raise funds for the Mayor’s Charity and other good causes, while emphasising Walton’s link with the Thames.