On 20 July 2024, Patchway partied all day and well into the evening as the town let its hair down at the Throwback Festival 2024.
A few showers did not stop thousands of residents heading to Norman Scott Park for a packed day of live music and entertainment, Croles Funfair, activities and events for all, market traders, local organisations, fantastic food and drinks, and an opportunity to throw back the years.
Brilliantly compered throughout the day by the Edinburgh Fringe bound Jack & Jordan, the Main Stage and Festival was opened by Mayor of Patchway, Cllr Dayley Lawrence before JoJo Sparkles wowed the crowds with her first of three magic shows.
The music was designed to take people back and the first act ‘The Sundaes’ brought a 1950s theme to the party before ‘The Beatles Story’ brought the nostalgia flooding in.
Residents flocked into the Park to peruse the over 40 community stalls and local craft vendors which included Men in Sheds, Coniston Community Centre, Stand Up Against Racism (SARI), St John’s Ambulance and Little Loves Bakes.
Local organisations included the Bristol Jets BMX Team, Avon Fire & Rescue’s fire engine, and the introduction of the FACE Mobile Youth Vehicle to the Park. And wherever there was an organisation or stall, the Mayor of Patchway and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Angela Morey could be spotted!
On the main stage, the music kept those memories flooding back with ‘Here We Go Again ABBA Gold’ and tribute to Queen ‘They Will Rock You’. Jack and Jordan kept the crowds laughing in between the acts – even adopting the two marquees as ‘Jack’s Tent’ and ‘Jordan’s Tent’. The Council profusely apologises to the two official Marquee Sponsors Ambourne House Day Nursery and Westcoast Properties!
Croles Funfair was buzzing all day with the classic Waltzer a popular memory for many and a new experience for some. The No Limits ride took riders up high for a birds eye view, and the Sizzler sizzled all day, as well as calmer rides and fun of the fair stalls for the whole family.
The Circus Skills Workshops were popular including the opportunity to learn how to walk the high wire, and Special Occasions mascots entertained the crowds including classic favourites Postman Pat, Darth Vader and Donatello.
The Punch & Judy Show went down a treat with both children and adults. And at the Pavilion, Bristol Reptile Encounters provided a unique opportunity to see closeup and hold snakes and reptiles.
People’s taste buds were not disappointed with Jamaican cooking from Food with Sophie, Indian cuisine from Bombay Brrunch, jacket potatoes, hot pork rolls, burgers, hot dogs, a variety of mouth-watering sweets and cakes on offer, and cream teas from Snack Attacks in the Park. The Outside Bar from Patchway Sports & Social Club and The Booze Box bar kept the adults hydrated.
Back at the Mains Stage, headline act ‘Fearlessly Taylor’ from Mini Concerts got the party really building up with her tribute to Taylor Swift before ‘Disco Inferno’ concluded the night with a string of disco belters and an impromptu conga around the Park.
The day could not have happened without the magnificent volunteer support of Town Councillors, local residents and Council staff team who ensured the day ran well and the Park was kept clean litter free across the day.
Mayor of Patchway, Cllr Dayley Lawrence said, ’Patchway – you are so brilliant. The rain could not stop you coming out and supporting this amazing event that had so much for everyone. You danced, you had fun, you ate & drank, you are fantastic. We cannot wait to see you all again next year!’.
Patchway Town Council would like to thank the sponsorship from local businesses which helped make it all possible - Snack Attacks in the Park | Bristol Reptile Encounters | Madras Junction | WestCoast Properties | Ambourne House Day Nursery | Signature Sports Coaching | HMC Patchway
Thank you Patchway, and goodnight. Until next year!
Watch our film of the day on YouTube HERE
Images and film from Gary Millard Photography and Patchway Town Council
Published 22 July 2024
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