Mixed Weather
Parade Day is usually a gloriously hot day but it had to happen sooner or later, it rained. In fact, it wasn't cold but the heavens opened for a while in the afternoon. It could not have been called a washout and anyway the parade was dry. Not to worry, Penistone FM were selling giant brollies on their Gala stand. The parade theme this year was 'Films Through the Ages', possibly with a nod in the direction of Holmfirth's first Film Festival, although they weren't represented on the Showground.
Penistone Gymnastics Society gave a demonstration of their skills near the Spar, prior to the parade setting off. Major roadworks opposite the British Legion caused a few problems and it was not possible to start and finish from the Showground this year. Mr Tesco had put paid to that. For the first time, the parade started from Talbot Road and there were fewer floats than usual. None the less, the usual large turnout made it into a success. As is the tradition these days, the current Penistone Mayor led the parade. This year was the turn of Carol Bradbury and she carried it off with a regal grace in a fine vintage Jaguar. Hours of work must have gone into the floats and costumes. As always, there was a lot of drumming and music to accompany the parade.
Penistone Gala
The Gala seemed to be even leaner this year with not so many marquees and activities compared to usual. Many of the usual trade stands didn't appear this time and I didn't even see an ice-cream van anywhere. There was enough to do for the younger ones, with children's rides. Entertainment for the big ones was provided by 'Take 2 Big Band' and it was doing well until the rains came and the marquee quickly filled with refugees from the weather. The band played on but quickly became hidden behind a wall of loiterers and somehow became lost. Further entertainment was provided by Mini Mansell - the Stilt Walker, entertainer and looney and the Knights of the Damned, a medieval jousting stunt team.
