Aylesbury prepares to celebrate famous author
Archived press release
Date Published: 17/06/08
Local schools will take part in a spectacular procession through Aylesbury town centre
Aylesbury is preparing to commemorate the life and achievements of one of the most successful writers in the world – Roald Dahl.
The Roald Dahl Festival on Saturday 5 July is a very special day of family entertainment to celebrate the area’s links with the popular children’s author.
This year’s festival does not aim to disappoint. Aylesbury town centre is expected to be bustling with thousands of people all looking to see and take part in the festivities themed around Dahl’s classic tale ‘The Twits’.
Nearly 20 primary and secondary schools have been working with local artists over the past few months to create artwork for the day, as well as giant Catalan-style puppets based on characters from the book.
The festival gives everyone involved in the workshops a chance to take part in a spectacular procession through Aylesbury town centre, which leaves the Civic Centre at 11am.
There will be a host of activities taking place in Kingsbury during the day, including art and craft activities for children, street theatre and samba music.
Nearby, the County Museum and Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery will have a fantastic fun day and Aylesbury library offers special reading related activities and opportunities for young people.
Other events include a free activity day at St Mary’s Church, a children’s book swap shop at the Kings Head and a family prize trail in the town centre where there is an opportunity to win some great prizes.
Aylesbury Vale District Council is hosting the festival. The council’s cabinet member for leisure, Councillor David Thompson, said he is sure the man himself would be pleased with the day.
“Roald Dahl's books have entertained millions of people over the years”, said Councillor Thompson. “What better way is there to pay tribute to one of Buckinghamshire’s best loved personalities than holding a festival in his honour?”
He added: “This year's Roald Dahl Festival looks set to be as colourful as ever, with many different activities for everyone to become involved in or watch. I’m sure he would have appreciated this special day of family entertainment to celebrate his work.”
For further information on the festival, please visit the council’s website or call 01296 585210. Alternatively, leaflets are available from council offices and other usual outlets.