Leighton-Linslade Town Council plans action-packed summer with Films in the Paddock to replace Canal Festival

Leighton-Linslade Town Council is planning an action-packed summer for 2021, with plenty to look forward to as families chink glasses and wave goodbye to a year like no other.

As the weather warms up, residents can look forward to events including Music in the Park, the Big Lunch, Last Night of the Proms, The Business Networking event, and of course, The Living History Event later in the year.

However, there will be no Linslade Canal Festival this July, but instead, residents can enjoy Films in the Paddock at Tiddenfoot Waterside Park.

A Leighton-Linslade Town Council spokeswoman, said: "As there is no change to the need for social distancing, this summer we are introducing a reservation system for the first time at all of our events. Reservations will be free to make online or by phone prior to each event taking place. We would advise residents to keep an eye out for the town council’s social media and website messages for more details on when reservations are open.

"The Music in the Park programme will resume in Parson’s Close Recreation Ground from Sunday, June 6, with performances from local orchestral, wind and jazz bands throughout the summer. Concerts will run weekly until Sunday, September 5, from 3pm.

"We will not be able to deliver the Linslade Canal Festival this year so it will be replaced by Films in the Paddock at Tiddenfoot Waterside Park on Saturday July 31 and Sunday, August 1.

"Viewers will be able to enjoy five films suitable for a wide age range throughout the weekend."

The decision regarding the postponement of the Canal Festival and its replacement with a film festival (subject to local or national restrictions) was taken at the Cultural and Economic Services Committee recently.

The town council spokeswoman continued: "Big Lunch will take place but at a different venue with a change of date and timings. Parson’s Close Recreation Ground will host the event on Saturday August 21 and Sunday, August 22. Big Lunch will have a selection of foods from around the world with live stage performances from Mariachi Tequila and party band Revolve throughout the weekend.

"Last Night of the Proms returns for September 2021 to Parson’s Close Recreation Ground featuring live musical performances from our Proms orchestra and the chance to watch the Last Night of the Proms screened directly from the Royal Albert Hall in London alfresco, enjoying a picnic with friends and family.

"The Business Networking event will move to the autumn and a date will be confirmed in due course. We have been reviewing our approach to Living History and recommendations will go to the Cultural and Economic Services Committee in due course. With the ongoing central government roadmap out of Covid, we would hope to be organising a Christmas Festival and that decision will follow.

"As the year unfolds, we will adjust and plan accordingly. We look forward to delivering our events if somewhat differently this year."