Dursley News
Entertainer plans Gala Day in Dursley to celebrate Diamond Jubilee
9:30am Tuesday 21st February 2012
A FORMER entertainer is hoping to bring some sparkle to Dursley this summer in time for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Wallace French, 62, who was once winner of the Australian New Faces talent show, has gathered a team to help organise a community event to mark the national celebration locally.
Mr French said the idea was to hold a Gala Day on Saturday, June 2 to coincide with the double bank holiday weekend for the Diamond Jubilee.
He said: "Many people will remember the Gala Day we used to have in the town and we want to create something like that.
"We want families to come along and have a day of family fun."
Mr French, who grew up in Dursley, said he hoped the day would include a parade of floats through the town centre, designed by local groups and schools, and a marching band, as well as activities on the town’s Recreation Ground, off Kingshill Road, such as a It’s a Knock Out and five-a-side football competitions, stalls and refreshments.
The idea has already gained the support of the town council, which has agreed to hire out the recreation ground for the day.
Cllr Claire Nelmes, deputy mayor for the town, said: "I think it’s a really good idea."
The town council is also looking into the possibility of lighting a beacon in the town during the June bank holiday weekend to coincide with thousands of others around the country.
Mr French said the event now needed to gain the support of the wider community to get off the ground.
He said: "We really want local businesses to get involved with through sponsorship, or providing prizes – that sort of thing.
"We need as much help as possible. If anyone has ideas they should call me."
Anyone wanting to get involved should call Wallace French on 07928 178791.