Crawley Happy Times at The Annual Crawley Irish Festival

On Sunday, 30th August 2009, flags came out, outfits were donned, jigs were performed and music was played. 

Where did this all happen? At the 14th annual Crawley Irish Festival, held on Southgate playing fields. This festival was supported by the Irish Government, through the Dion fund, Crawley Borough Council, West Sussex County Council and the Crawley Town Centre Partnership with additional sponsorship from the Murphy Group and O’Connor Utilites Limited.

The weather was slightly breezy on the day but this did not deter the hundreds of people who attended! Crawley Happy Times had the honour of a stand at the event.  We set up and proudly awaited any interest in our posters and pens. 

The Lions Club Mascot

The day was full of entertainment and Irish dancers, showing off their talents, from 3 different stages strategically set about the field.  There were various other stands, all raising money for the next Irish Festival in 2010. There were some of the usual faces; you know, the ones who always help out and raise money for great causes, and, of course some new fundraisers too.  We had the pleasure of seeing the Worshipful the Mayor Brenda Burgess, her lovely husband and we also met John Nolan, Chairman of the Celtic and Irish Cultural Society, who will be speaking to Crawley Happy Times in the near future to update us on the money raised. As soon as he has recovered from arranging this amazing event, that is!

On the Dome Stage the entertainment was relentless: The Olive Stones opened the musical interlude and were swiftly followed by Martin Ruddy, Kathy Durkin, Reelstrings and last, but not least, Shawn Cuddy. On the Trad stage we were treated to a great array of Irish music by Brogue, Flying Toads, Dun The Veil, Siansa and Crannog. The last stage; the Irish Dancing Stage, was the venue for the Irish dance competition. The beautiful children vying for the top prize were either part of the O’Brien School of Dancing or the Andromeda Edmonds School of Dancing.  The dancers were immaculately presented and moved like angels. Pictures to follow.

Gordon Skeggs looked after the main stage, including the sound and lighting. Gordon now has a big, red coach which tours on roadshows, promotions, festivals and various other events. The name of Gordon’s company, Just Unique is very apt as so is Gordon!

Gordon Skeggs with his bus

Obviously, at an Irish Festival, there had to be a beer tent. Drinkers weren’t disappointed: Guinness and various other lagers were on tap. After all, a festival is not a festival without a beer tent! 

People brought picnics and blankets (some even brought their own chairs) and sat on the field enjoying the music.  There were plenty of activities to keep the children happy, including two bouncy castles and a mini fun fair.  The local constabulary were on hand, keeping a watchful eye on the day, although, thankfully, their arresting presence was deterrance enough.

The St. John Ambulance crew were also on hand to help with any injuries, which were, thankfully, minimal.

Volunteers for the day

If you have never been to the Crawley Irish Festival in the past 14 years then, we recommend you put this date in your diary for next year.

 It occurs on the same August Bank Holiday Sunday, every year. Not only is it a wonderful day for the whole family, it is also a chance to meet up with friends for nibbles and a drink or two.

We very much look forward to attending next year and hope John enjoyed it enough to want to do it all over again.

Our thanks go to John Nolan for the stand, Linda Silence of Visions Photography for taking some great pictures on our behalf and to all those who came to our stand in support of Crawley Happy Times. Oh and a special thank you to Madeleine Mills representing The Lions Club, who let us borrow some ballons for our stand.

The Trad Stage

Cllr Lee Gilroy & Shelley

Our friend Mr Jassie donating again

 

Shelley, Mayor Brenda Burgess & Mr Burgess