Telford 50 Blazes Bright
As Storm Diana blew out, the crowds came out in force and the Southwater Fire Garden burned long into the night – as Telford celebrated its 50th birthday on Thursday 29 November.
Telford’s European Christmas Market opened for its first night amidst a bustling atmosphere and a rich variety of entertainment.
Attractions included the spectacular Spark drummers who toured the market and Southwater Lake with their rhythms and dazzling costumes, the Salvation Army brass band and a funfair.
Elsewhere Telford celebrated what its community does best at the Telford Community Pride Awards ceremony at The International Centre, recognising the achievements and contributions of people and organisations across the borough, with winners across 13 publicly nominated categories.
The day marked the 50th anniversary of the confirmation of the official order making Telford a new town.
In reality the Telford 50 celebrations have been throughout 2018, with more than 70,000 people attending landmark events like Spring Into St George’s Day, the Kite and Balloon Fiesta, Telford Carnival and dozens of community events across the borough marking the anniversary.
The actual 50th birthday did not disappoint either – bright lights on the waters of Southwater Lake and blazing spheres and waterside torches provided a memorable sight for visitors. Check our Flickr gallery of pictures
The Fire Garden is repeated again on Friday and Saturday (Nov 30 and 1 Dec) from around 5pm until around 10pm.
The European Christmas Market – now in its third year – also provided a suitably festive feel with stalls offering a wide range of Christmas produce and drinks.
Council leader Shaun Davies said: “Telford 50 has been a very special year for the town but it has not just been about the celebrations. With the legacy projects right across the borough and the involvement from so many different parts of the community, Telford 50 has achieved so much more.
“There’s still a lot more to come from Telford 50 with many Legacy Projects due to complete in the coming months, while we’ll be hosting three of our biggest events again in 2019 – a St George’s Day event and Balloon Festival both in Telford Town Park and Telford’s Got Talent.
“Telford 50 is building a lasting benefit, harnessing an ever more positive spirit and involved community here, working together to create an even better borough.”
