THERE was a proper sunny carnival atmosphere for the Mayor’s Parade at the weekend which drew thousands into the town centre. This year’s event was all about family as Barnsley Mayor Coun Jeff Ennis has chosen ‘family first’ as his theme for the mayoral year. Residents lined the streets to watch the spectacle which saw hundreds of revellers danced and walked their way around the town centre. They were joined by musicians, sports clubs, dancers and many more wonderful and creative parade contributors from across the borough who all added to the vibrant atmosphere. Mayor Coun Ennis said the Frumptarn Guggenband led the parade with ‘great gusto and flair’ and the Barnsley Percussionists ‘kept everyone marching to the right beat’. The mayor’s choice of outstanding contribution was Kiddy Winx Play Centre and winner of the best float went to Barnsley Mencap. Winner for the best walking group was made up of staff, children and families from the Early Start and Families Services which includes: Barnsley Family Centres, Barnsley Families Information Service and Early Help. There was plenty going off alongside the parade to keep families happy with entertainment and stalls in the town centre. One of the star attractions was the Xplosive Ape Man Beast car dead lift championship outside the interchange where some of the region’s strongest men were in action to see how many times they could lift a car. It raised £380 for the UK Solidarity Fund to support victims of the recent UK terror attacks.
