Schoolchildren gear up for nautical magic at Summer Festival Parade

More than 2,000 people community groups and local schools will take to the streets of South Shields on Saturday for the annual summer parade which this year will celebrate South Tyneside’s rich maritime history, the sights of the seaside and mark 150 years of the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade.

Youngsters at Hedworthfield Primary School in Jarrow will join other schools and community groups, wearing a host of maritime themed costumes and props that have been created in special workshops over the past few months.

Councillor Alan Kerr, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “The Summer Parade is a highlight of the South Tyneside Festival and we are delighted that so many people are taking part.

“To really experience the best of the parade and its atmosphere we would encourage people to line the route.”

The parade will set off from South Shields Town Hall at 1pm and travel along Fowler Street and Ocean Road and Sea Road before finishing at Bents Park, where the entertainment will continue until 4pm, with live music, dance performances and family friendly activities.

South Tyneside Council has worked with artistic director Garner Harris from Creative Seed to deliver the parade.

Mr Harris said: “There has been a huge amount of effort and hard work from all those involved, including community groups and schools across the borough, to make this year’s Summer Parade extra special.

“Let’s hope for sunshine this weekend so that people can get into the carnival spirit and see this glorious glittering spectacle at its best.”