Westminster: gala day a success

South Westminster’s annual two-week festival got off to a fantastic start on Saturday (27 June) with over 5,000 people attending a gala day in St.George's Square, Pimlico.

L&Q sponsored the DJ tent and Pimlico Toy Library's float in the carnival opening parade.

We also took the opportunity to seek local residents’ opinions on training and employment, safer neighbourhoods and healthy living (pictured: the ‘guess how many sweets in the jar’ competition was a popular way of getting people talking about healthy living).

Jon Herbert, Neighbourhood Investment Officer at L&Q, said it was an excellent event, with large numbers of people enjoying the sunshine, a great variety of stalls, and an array of talent on the big stage. 

He added: “It was so good to meet lots of people and enjoy the diversity of the area. A great day was had by all and we feel privileged to have supported the festival and be associated with such a massive event.”

The South West Fest is an annual event celebrating the rich diversity and culture of South Westminster. Festival Fortnight offers something for everyone, with highlights including:

• An open-air ‘Shakespeare in the Square’ presentation of ‘Merchant of Venice’
• A masquerade ball for local young people at Chelsea College of Art and Design’s banqueting hall
• ‘Come Sing and Dance With Me’, where older residents will enjoy big band numbers from Kew Wind Orchestra
• The return of ‘Pimlico's Got Talent’ and ‘Alternative Antiques Roadshow’
• A healthy lifestyle day hosted by Cardinal Place