Hundreds attend children’s parade

The annual children’s parade, which began in Denton Gardens, weaved its way along the seafront and town centre, ending at Steyne Gardens.

It was the culmination of six months of preparations, with parents and children working tirelessly to produce large pieces of artwork that represented the county through time.

Winnie the Pooh, a giant bucket and spade and children dressed as trees of the South Downs were just a pick of the imaginative themes.

Organiser Lindy Stannard hailed the hard-work of all involved and said the event was a success.

She said: “The schools work so hard. The teachers put in so many extra hours at school to do the artwork.

“It all becomes one big event and brings everyone together in this moment.”

She added: “My Brighton children’s parade was my inspiration and I just felt there was a need for something similar in Worthing.

The windy conditions were ideal for Thomas A Becket’s focal point – a giant windmill.

Teacher Kim Noble said: “It’s fantastic and really good for the children.

“It gets all the year groups together and all the parents get involved, too.

“We couldn’t do it without their support.”

Broadwater Manor School were dressed as people from historical periods, such as the Romans, in line with the names of the school’s house groups.

Stephanie Salter, deputy head, said: “Kath Okroj, one of our grandparents has acted as the co-ordinator and we have dressed up to represent our four house groups.

“The children have all made their costumes and shields and we are singing traditional songs, too.”

Chatsmore High School were the only high school in attendance, and were using the parade as a chance to raise money for St Barnabas House Hospice.

Subject leader for art Caroline Woodward said the event was a long-time in the making.

She said: “We have been preparing for six months, doing all the artwork.

“We also have a samba band, which we have done for the last four years now.”

Bramber First School spent weeks making a giant bucket and spade as the centrepiece of their efforts.

Tracy Taylor, head teacher, said; “We wanted to celebrate the beaches of Sussex.

“Slowly but surely, it has all come together and the children have really enjoyed taking part.”