Public urged to get involved as South Tyneside summer parade preparations hot up

The parade will be Maritime Mayhem-themed, and ideas are being sought.

Volunteers are also wanted to help build carnival floats, props and outfits, as well as to use their skills to help out behind the scenes.

An open day will be held tomorrow at South Tyneside College, in St George’s Avenue, South Shields, where people will be able to get detailed advice and guidance.

Experts from The Creative Seed, the specialist production company co-ordinating and delivering parade activities, will help people put their ideas into practice at the event, which is part of this year’s South Tyneside Festival, also run by South Tyneside Council.

Information on other roles, such as make-up artists and those who would like to shoot video footage on the day, is also available.

Garner Harris, of The Creative Seed, said: “The parade is all about trying to include people, not excluding – we want to involve as many as possible.

“Our team will be at the college to help and advise people on how they can get involved and contribute to this fantastic summer event.

“Dancers and stilt walkers will be on hand, and we will be able to show people how props and costumes are made.

“It really is a great opportunity for people to find out all they need to know about using their creative talents to the full.”

The summer parade will take place on Saturday, July 2, and will run from South Shields Town Hall to Bents Park, where the fun will continue with music, entertainment and much more.

Coun Alan Kerr, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council with responsibility for culture and leisure, said: “The open day provides people the perfect opportunity to develop and showcase their artistic talents.

“We would urge people to come along to the summer parade open day to get involved and to make sure the second of July is in their diary as this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.”

Organisers hope last year’s estimated total of about 2,000 participants and 25,000 spectators can be bettered.

The open day takes place from 1.15pm to 6pm, with access through the college’s main foyer.

People with specialist skills, including those who can use aluminium or a rivet gun, are also invited to attend.

More information is available from Garner on 07725 267 478, with detail about The Creative Seed at www.thecreativeseed.co.uk