Folly At The Folly

Hertford's annual Folly@TheFolly returns this summer on Sunday 15th July from 12 noon with the theme of Follympics and centered on The Barge public house.

Narrowboats decked out for Folly @ The Folly

The Folly @ The Folly - 'Not a village fete, not a car boot sale, not a music festival, but a party' - hopes to raise even more money for The National Deaf Children's Society, 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 once again been invited to decorate their houses on the theme of The Follympics (anything sport-related). "Last year, the streets were alive with colour as residents transformed their houses into Follywood." 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.

Narrow boat owners have been invited to decorate the river and add their own colour to the spectacle.

Attractions in the car park of The Old Barge will include live Scalextric racing ('beat the champ'), jugglers, a belly dancing display, face painting and live music from Nuala, The Ukeabilly Big Band, Daisy Lewis and The Huxleys. 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 making it a fantastic day".

A veteran fundraiser for NDCS, Ian has been holding street parties for several years and asks friends and acquaintances to use their various talents to help out on the day. "This will be our tenth year," said Ian, "and we a beginning to get the hang of organising a great day out for the family."

Last year, the total sum raised by the event was just over £3,000 and Ian aims to surpass that 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!"