The great English weather tried hard but did not dampen the spirits of the wonderful people of Retford who turned out to the Retford Platinum Jubilee celebration on Sunday 5th June 2022. All week, members of the Retford Platinum Jubilee Task Group lead by Retford Business Forum had been watching every weather forecast they could as the predictions got worse. They really wanted to deliver the good weather Plan A if possible, however on Saturday the decision was made – Plan C was put into action and the lovely Retford Town Hall was dressed for the occasion.
The Ballroom was set out with tables and chairs, union flag tablecloths, union flags on the tables and bunting everywhere – it really looked fit for a royal party. The Buttermarket became half café – run by the team of volunteers from Goodwin Hall – and half craft and community stalls, with some amazing items to buy.
It was a great chance for everyone to get together and they did. There were welcomes from local VIPs at 1.00pm, with a prayer for the Queen from Rev David Bean, and short speeches from Chairman of Bassetlaw District Council, Madelaine Richardson, Mayor of Retford, Carolyn Troop, Bassetlaw Youth Mayor, Malachi Carroll, and Deputy Mayor of Retford Sue Shaw. All of these celebrities then ‘rolled up their sleeves’ and helped to run the tea and coffee bar in the ballroom and generally keep the place tidy.
The Council Chamber provided a regal setting for Becci Mason’s Debutots and Professor Paul Temple’s Punch & Judy Show, while the crown-making workshop and face painter delighted children in the bar area, which was, of course, closed.
Outside it rained and it rained and it was cold – inside the Town Hall, it was a warm friendly occasion which visitors of all ages enjoyed tremendously. Russ Brett was the DJ for the day and delivered the announcements about what was happening, and live entertainment was provided by Worksop Salvation Army Band and local singer, Jessica Mary Brett. People listened, chatted with each other, laughed and danced the afternoon away.
Rick Brand, Chair of Retford Business Forum said, “It was a right royal party – Retford had a wonderful time – many thanks to everyone who attended, and well done to the volunteers from Retford Business Forum, and to Bassetlaw District Council, North Notts BID, and Retford Charter Trustees for making it all happen.”
Retford Business Forum relies entirely on its members, donations, and grants, and is not regularly funded by anyone. Members include individuals, businesses, and organisations, and information about Retford Business Forum can be found at www.retfordbusinessforum.org.uk
