Wellington family fun day after outrage over EDL march
A family fun day is being held in in Wellington – in what has been dubbed a "positive" move to contrast with a controversial protest march by the English Defence League held last weekend.
The event is free to enter, and will be held on Saturday from 11am to 2pm.
Last weekend saw 50 EDL protesters march through the streets of Wellington, in response to a recent investigation into child sex exploitation in Telford. The group was also met by 40 counter protesters.
The demonstration sparked outrage amongst many locals as well as causing much disruption within the local community.
This week, Telford and Wrekin Council have teamed up with local councillors and Wellington Town Council to organise a free family fun event to divert attention away from the demonstrations.
Lee Carter, borough councillor for College Ward, said: “We wanted to organise an event very quickly to promote the friendly face of Wellington.
"It’s obviously a direct contrast to the demonstration we saw take place in the Square last Saturday. Wellington is a welcoming town with lots of great businesses and this event is intended to amplify that.”
The family fun day aims to promote the town, its facilities and the welcoming atmosphere it offers to local families. The afternoon will include balloon modelling, face painting, street entertainment, large Connect 4 and a bouncy castle. The Exotic Zoo will also be in the Square between 12 noon and 1pm.
Councillor Angela McClements said: “I am delighted to help fund this free family event through my Councillor Pride Fund. The Wellington Square is the heart of Wellington. I am proud of my town, its where we promote and encourage positive communities activities and I am looking forward to bringing along my family to join in the activities on Saturday.”
The event has been funded by Telford & Wrekin Council, Wellington Town Council and local Councillors Lee Carter, Angela McClements and Graham Cook through their Councillors Pride Funds.
Everyone is welcome to come and join in the fun, and show some support for their local town.
Parking in Wellington is free, with over 900 spaces available.
