Folly At The Folly

The carnival atmosphere of Hertford's favourite street party is set to return to Folly Island on Sunday 8th August.

The Folly At The Folly will retain its traditional "hip street party" atmosphere and hopes to raise even more funds for the national Deaf Children's Charity, said organiser Ian Butler.

"We are aiming to create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere which can be enjoyed by young and old alike. We hope to involve residents of The Folly to make this a traditional community event for all the family," added Ian.

As well as the customary mix of stalls and entertainment, Folly residents have been invited to decorate their houses on the theme of The Animal Kingdom. "Last year, the streets were alive with colour as residents transformed their houses into Countries of the World." said Ian, "It really seemed to bring people together!"

"It's such a great idea that we should celebrate the little gem that is Folly Island. I am really looking forward to decorating our house," commented Thornton Street resident Emma Weedon.

An additional attraction this year will be a decorated river with Narrow boat owners invited to add their own colour to the spectacle.

By popular demand, Steve Ball and his Drumnasium workshop will return for the event on August 8 and the public is invited to join in: "Come along and try one of African djembe drums provided," said Steve. "It's a fantastic and enjoyable way to relieve stress." Other attractions will include live Scalextric racing ('beat the champ'), jugglers, a belly dancing display, face painting, live music on the acoustic stage.

Refreshments will include a barbecue, ice creams, teas and coffees and thirsts will be taken care of in The Old Barge.

The popular street party, held in aid of the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), is aided by the generous support of local businesses and residents. Organiser Ian Butler's thanks go to all the companies, sponsors and individuals that have done so much to make the event a success in recent years: "We are well on the way to having a fantastic day".

A veteran fundraiser for NDCS, Ian has been holding street parties for the past seven years and asks friends and acquaintances to use their various talents to help out on the day. These include DJs, chefs, musicians, artists, entertainers and many more.

Last year, in glorious weather, the total sum raised was over £2,000 and Ian aims to raise even more this year: "The challenge is to attract as many people as possible, especially families with children, to the party to enjoy games, food, music, animals from Paradise Wildlife Park, stalls, jugglers, magicians and anything else that can be arranged. It's always a great day out and our aim is for a free, family-oriented fun afternoon. A traditional street party, in fact!"

By involving local media during the build-up of the street party, Ian hopes to reach out to a larger audience and, the better known the party becomes, the more media attention it should receive each year: "Come along to "The Folly @ The Folly" for a Sunday afternoon of free entertainment for all the family. Make a note in your diary for Folly Island, Sunday 8 August, from 12 noon and tell all your friends," he added.

The party now has its own web site and FaceBook page and offers businesses reciprocal links and advertising space to help raise funds for the charity. "Sponsors' praises will be sung from the rooftops", promises Ian.