- Dancers performing in the village hall Picture: Ian Lyons
A CORONATION party planned for Emersons Green Park had to move indoors after a bad weather forecast.
Advance warning of the rain heading across the region on May 6, the day King Charles III was crowned at Westminster Abbey, gave the town council and Emersons Green Village Hall the chance to change their plans the day before, and move the planned Picnic in the Park event into the hall.
It meant the music, dancing and party games took place inside the main hall, with a large screen set up in one of the hall’s meeting rooms for people who wanted to watch the ceremony in London.
Village hall manager Nikki Frost said: “After much deliberation, it was decided that the event would take place entirely at the Village Hall, due to unfavourable weather conditions forecast.
“Although the organisers were initially disappointed to move the event from the park, the decision was made to prioritise the health and safety of all attendees.
“Despite the change in venue, the event was a resounding success, with attendees enjoying a plethora of entertainment options throughout the day.
“The rooms were filled with the sounds of laughter, music, dancing, and joyous celebrations as King Charles III was crowned.
“The outstanding Party Peeps, Bristol Pops Orchestra, mini-concerts, and Correa Andrews Ensemble provided incredible entertainment on stage, while the Kuchipudi Classical Dance group delivered a captivating performance.”
The event also included face painting, balloon sculptures, bouncy castles and slides for children.
Nikki added: “The event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of a partnership between Emersons Green Village Hall and Emersons Green Town Council, including their staff and volunteers, as well as the outstanding security provided by DBD security and volunteering from the local Explorer Scouts.
“We extend our thanks to everyone who contributed to making the King’s Coronation Event for Emersons Green a huge success.”
A big screen event at the Bristol & Bath Science Park did go ahead but with rain, cloud and decidedly cool temperatures through the morning it was understandably not crowded.
People attending events the following day, including thousands at the Coronation Big Lunch in Page Park, Staple Hill, had more luck, with sunshine and warm weather for the whole day.