Local young people take part in the central London event
Merton won £1,000 at the annual London New Year’s Day Parade which is to be donated to the Mayor of Merton’s charities, Merton Mencap and Commonside Community Development Trust.
This year’s event saw record numbers line the streets to watch the 32nd parade. Themed Showtime, roll up, roll up to the greatest show on earth, the procession filled the streets of London with dancers, acrobats, marching bands and cheerleaders.
In keeping with the parade's theme, Merton’s entry was 'Nature, the greatest show on earth'. Giant puppets from land, sea and air danced their way through London’s West End, led by an enormous David Attenborough lookalike. It finished in 10th place.
The voices of pupils from Links Primary School choir also entertained the crowds with their specially written song, Nature, the greatest show on earth, composed by Councillor Linda Kirby for the parade. The song was pre-recorded at Crown Lane Studios, Morden a few weeks before the event.
Mayor of Merton, Councillor Marsie Skeete said, “I am very proud to be involved in such an exciting event. The effort and creativity put into the costumes and puppets was outstanding. I would like to give a special thanks to the students at Wimbledon College of Art for all their hard work and Councillor Linda Kirby for organising the Merton entry.”
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January 5, 2018