Robbie Williams and Elton John tributes at Godmanchester Gala

The parade started on the new Roman's Edge housing estate and finishing in the arena of the gala day event, which is held annually on Godmanchester Recreation Ground.

The parade was led by the mayor of Godmanchester, Cllr Alan Hooker, being chauffeur-driven in an open-topped Mecedes, followed by the four gala princess each in their own vintage car.  

Apart from during lockdown, the gala event has been running for the past 45 years, organised by the Godmanchester Community Association committee and volunteers.

Entertainment in the arena included Mr Bumbulum the Fool as well as performances from The Blue Vision Twirlers, Coleman's Creative Academy, Forte Dance Academy as well as arena fun and games.

Robbie Williams tribute act Dan Budd performing at Godmanchester Gala (Image: Alan Hooker)

"During the afternoon there were 50 stalls, many of them run by local activity groups affiliated with the community association, raising funds alongside arts and crafts artisans," said Cllr Hooker.

"There was also a large plant and veg area selling the fresh produce grown by the local Allotment Association members. The day finished with a 1,000 duck duck race."

Then, Sunday July 2 saw the recreation ground rocking with the annual family get together ‘Picnic in the Park’. 

This was helped along with a musical line-up that included Mixed Tape, The Soul Sisters, Caustic Lights, Dan Budd performing an amazingly strong set as ‘Robbie Williams’ and equally enjoyable finale from Joel Coombes as ‘Elton John’ supported by his very professional four-piece band.

Crowds enjoying Godmanchester Gala 2023 (Image: Alan Hooker)

"The beer tent sold out of many items and the town council's new climbing structure ‘Skyworld’ provided hours of free fun on both days for the children as an alternative to the fun fair present for the weekend," added Cllr Hooker.

"The weekend will cost Godmanchester Community Association in excess of £20,000 to put on and the committee would like to thank the Godmanchester Town Council and Bellway Homes for their financial help in covering some of the costs this year."

Some of the many stalls at Godmanchester Gala 2023. (Image: Gerry Brown)

On the ground at Godmanchester Gala 2023. (Image: Gerry Brown)

Stallholders at Godmanchester Gala 2023. (Image: Gerry Brown)