Community spirit continues in summer street parties inspired by Jubilee fun
Neighbours enjoying a Jubilee street party in Lichen court, Barkingside - Credit: Archant
The community spirit of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and 2012 Olympics is alive and kicking in Ilford and Newbury Park.
Last year’s street parties were so successful that two roads decided to hold another round of celebrations.
Residents spoke to Redbridge Council’s area seven committee at about their plans at a meeting at Christchurch Primary School, in Wellesley Road, Ilford, on Tuesday.
Ros Southern, of Auckland Road, thanked councillors for the £250 contribution towards the cost of their party in May.
As well as food, music, a face painter and a bouncy castle for children to enjoy, a Zumba instructor was also on hand to teacher the exercise to residents.
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Mrs Southern said around 150 residents and families joined in at the party.
She added: “It was great – everybody met new people and even people from the multiple occupation houses came out.”
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Residents from Hertford Road, Newbury Park, also visited the committee to request funding for their own party.
Mahurnessa Rahman said last year’s celebration for the Jubilee was so successful that it even sparked the formation of the Hertford Road Residents’ Association (HURRA).
She added: “After five years living there I only knew three houses and it seemed such a shame.
“But everyone turned out for the party and it was wonderful – it was the first community event in the road since the 70s.
“We wanted to have another party to continue improving community relations.”
Councillors unanimously granted £250 towards the street party on August 25, where there will be a bouncy castle, comedy and magic shows for children and games.
Cllr Mahboob Chaudhary hailed the party as a “wonderful idea”.
He added: “The more people we can get together and to know each other, the better.”
Cllr Ross Hatfull added: “Anything that brings a street together and generates a sense of community has only got to be a good thing.”
The council scrapped fees previously charged for road closures in September to make it easier for street parties to be held.
