By Linzi Watson

Last updated at 15:15, Friday, 18 February 2011

Brampton could host a mass street party in April to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Alison Cheetham

A group are in the process of organising the bank holiday bash which would see Front Street closed to traffic and stalls and fair ground rides lining the road.

Residents and businesses are being urged to get behind the event to help make the party a success.

Early plans are for a children’s fairground to be set up on the cobbles around the Moot Hall, stalls on Front Street and live performances from local bands held in the centre of town.

The proposal is for cakes, tea and coffee to be served and tables and chairs set out for older residents to enjoy the occasion as Prince William marries his fiancée Kate on Friday, April 29 at Westminster Abbey.

Sandra Mallinson, who was part of the now disbanded Brampton Carnival Committee, is leading the party plans. She said: “This street party is something for the people of Brampton to enjoy on this special day. The plans are in the early stages but everyone I have spoken to so far is really enthusiastic about them.

“I decided to set about organising something because I think it is important to mark the occasion. I hope local people get behind the idea and support us.”

Brampton parish council chairman Judith Pattinson echoed the call, adding: “It is important that residents get involved and the parish council will offer any help that it can.”

Alison Cheetham, chairman of Brampton Business Association, said she is also supportive of the plans.

“I think this is an excellent idea. I mentioned this to our members and there was a positive response.

“We are happy to help in any way that we can.”

She added that it is likely many of the town’s shops will also close on the day of the wedding to join in with the celebrations.

Sandra, who has a team of about seven volunteers, has contacted Cumbria County Council highways authority to ask about closing off Front Street.

If this is agreed, cars and buses would be prohibited from driving through the busy main street for the day. Low Cross Street would also be closed.

“This means that people can have a seat outside and will be able to wander around the stalls without having to worry about the traffic,” she said.

The group are preparing to start fundraising for the party and will be taking to the streets with collection buckets. An appeal has also gone out to local business for donations to help with the cost. If you can help contact Sandra on 016977 3822.

•  Are you organising a street party? Email the newsdesk with the details

First published at 14:21, Friday, 18 February 2011
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk