This summer marks 50 years since the very first town festival. JANAKI MAHADEVAN looks back at the history of the event


On June 16, 1956 residents of Borehamwood and Elstree held a week of special celebrations.

The event, known as civic week' was organised by Borehamwood Arts council in a bid to create a feeling of community among the people.

Fifty years on, the town festival has changed a great deal but the principles of involving local people remain the same.

The opening ceremony of the first civic week was struck by typical British weather, forcing the crowds indoors but it was a resounding success nevertheless. Organisations from across the district offered support to help stage music, art, dance and drama events, culminating in a Youth Day procession.

In 1976, the organisation of the festival became the responsibility of Elstree & Borehamwood Town Council, by which time the parade had shrunk considerably.

But with a huge effort from the council and local groups by the early 1980s things were back on track. The tail-end of the procession was still leaving Ripon Way when the front end was entering Elstree Way.

The festival then expanded to a two-week extravaganza and the parade mared the beginning of the festivities.

It truly was a community affair with the town's tradesmen offering their vehicles for use in the procession. A milk float even made an appearance along the route.

Dazzling costumes, marching bands and decorated floats helped to attract crowds of people along the route.

Since those days, costs, increasing health and safety rules and a lack of open-back lorries has had an impact but schools, youth clubs and other groups still turn out for the long-running summer event.

Just as many new activities have been introduced over the years, some old favourites have managed to stand the test of time.

The baby show competition has seen plenty of proud parents showing off their bonny babies. Since 1958, the competition has been won 27 times by a girl and 16 times by a boy.

Another popular attraction that continues to draw in the crowds is Families Day, which continues the original of involving young people.

Throughout its history, the festival has given an opportunity for fundraising, provided a stage for local entertainment and has brought residents together.

This year will be no exception, with many events celebrating 50 years of a well-loved tradition.