Hundreds of people across the Westbury area came together over the bank holiday weekend to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III as a variety of different events took place including a community big lunch, a showing of the coronation in the town centre, a special Market Place concert, and a senior citizens’ tea party.
The celebrations kicked off on Friday 5th May as the Leigh Park Community Centre held a big community lunch where local people enjoyed a selection of savoury and sweet treats as they geared up for the coronation weekend.
For the main event, the more determined royal fans were not put off by the downpour on Saturday 6th May, as a number of people came out to Soisy Gardens near the library to enjoy live streaming of the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla, despite the poor weather. The screening of the coronation was hosted by the town council.
A great time – despite the weather
Speaking about the event, Westbury Mayor cllr Kimmins said, “It was so lovely to be able to provide another free event for the people of Westbury, and it was even better seeing people have a great time, despite the weather!
“We were expecting reduced numbers thanks to the forecast, but those that did come were really appreciative of us hosting the event and everyone seemed to have a great time! Thank you to everyone that attended and thank you to all those that helped make this event a reality.”
During Saturday evening, the Market Place was packed as local people came out to dance and enjoy performances from the Oasis tribute band Cidernova, and Bon Jovi tribute band From Jovi. The free event was organised by Westbury Market Place Events Ltd.
Showing Wiltshire how to party!
Organiser of the event, Matthew Dean said, “I was absolutely delighted with the turnout – Westbury really showed the rest of Wiltshire how to party! Thank you so much to all those that attended the celebrations in the Market Place and to everyone that helped make it a reality, the atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that people had a great time! We were treated to some great performances by both Cidernova and From Jovi, who really brought the energy that the crowd fed off.”
On Sunday, 7th May, the Westbury Lions Club held a free senior citizens’ coronation party where over 65s were treated to a day of music from local performers, sandwiches and sweet treats, and a raffle.
Also on the Sunday, All Saints Church held a special morning service that included prayers for King Charles III and was followed by celebratory drinks and refreshments, with a thanksgiving service with hymns and music later in the evening.
There were also celebrations across the surrounding villages, including those taking place in Bratton and Edington. Bratton Church Institute held an afternoon celebration with tea, cake, and music (complete with the opening of the coronation path), and there was a well dressing and picnic at the village pond in Edington.
