Families, friends and residents came together on Sunday 21st June for The Welcome’s annual Summer Funday at Toft Cricket Club, enjoying an afternoon packed with entertainment, activities, food and community spirit. Held on Father’s Day, the event welcomed visitors of all ages who enjoyed a wide range of attractions, including local stalls, refreshments and live entertainment, all in glorious sunshine. We were delighted that the Mayor of Knutsford Cllr Peter Coan attended and took time to meet visitors and enjoy the event.
Simon Carin, Chair of Trustees at The Welcome, said:
“We were absolutely delighted with the success of this year’s Summer Funday. It was wonderful to see so many families, friends and members of our local community coming together to enjoy the day. The atmosphere was fantastic from start to finish and we’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors, entertainers, stallholders, volunteers and everyone who attended for helping make the event such a success.
A huge thank you to Nigel Muirhead, Chairman of Toft Cricket Club, to Paul Raffo Chairman of the Toft Taverners, Peter Watson Toft Taverners Treasurer and all their members. Your support for The Welcome is greatly appreciated and without you, our Funday would not be possible.
Toft Cricket Club is a fabulous community space unrivalled in Knutsford and we wish the Club well with their new Pavilion when the build starts later this year.”
One of the highlights of the afternoon was a performance by Phoenix Voices Choir, who entertained guests with a 45-minute set featuring a medley of popular songs. As one of our Sponsors and Charity of the Year Partners, we were delighted to welcome the choir to perform.
Ann Blanshard, Chair of Phoenix Voices Choir, said:
“As a local community choir, we know how much the work of The Welcome is appreciated in Knutsford, so it wasn’t surprising that our members chose it as our Charity of the Year. We were thrilled to perform at the Summer Funday and show our support. Our next performance is a joint concert with Macclesfield Male Voice Choir on Friday 10th July at St. John’s Church, Knutsford, with proceeds in aid of The Welcome. Tickets priced £12.50 are available from choir members or via the choir’s Facebook page – Phoenix Voices Knutsford or email: phoenix-voices-knutsford@outlook.com
Visitors were also treated to a display from Gymfinity, showcasing the skills and talents of its young performers. Gauntlet Birds of Prey, represented by Director, bird handler and presenter Daisy Bessant and her colleague Megan, captivated audiences with an exciting live bird of prey show, giving families the opportunity to see these magnificent birds up close.
Daisy Bessant said:
“I think being part of the community is incredibly important to us as a family. Supporting events like this gives us the opportunity to share our knowledge and passion for birds, helping to educate people about different species and bring them closer to nature. We believe that connecting with wildlife is something everyone should have the chance to experience, and we’re proud to play a small part in making that happen”.
Throughout the afternoon, Jonathan Hills kept the atmosphere lively with music and karaoke, ensuring there was entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Peter Murray owner of Pulse of Perfumery demonstrated he was king of the microphone as well as running his very popular stall. Christopher Hickey, wowed audiences with his magic tricks and left many visitors scratching their heads as he performed a series of mind-boggling illusions.
The Welcome would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the Summer Funday such a success. Our thanks to Woods Butchers, Sheldons and Robinson Wholesale for supporting the BBQ, as well as Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Knutsford Police for bringing along their emergency vehicles, which proved hugely popular with visitors. Thanks are also extended to all the stallholders, the generous donors who provided raffle prizes and the many volunteers who gave their time and energy before, during and after the event, and of course all the staff at Toft Cricket Club.
Funds raised from the Summer Funday will help The Welcome continue its work supporting local people. Every penny raised is greatly appreciated and will help ensure that vital services and activities can continue to be offered to those who need them most.
