Rustington set for its festival ‘spectacular’

The jewels in the crown of the two-week Rustington Festival, which started on Sunday (June 9), the grand carnival procession and fun day are expected to attract thousands of spectators and participants.

The carnival procession will start from Holmes Lane at 1pm, continuing along Sea Lane, Shaftesbury Road, Broadmark Lane and The Street, before turning into Woodlands Avenue and onto the north field of the Recreation Ground, where the grand fête will be held.

Littlehampton District Lions’ Club is organising the festival and promises a delightful parade packed with entries including the band of Littlehampton’s Nautical Training Corps, TS Implacable, the Arundel and Littlehampton District Scout Band, Celebration Samba, Littlehampton’s Silk Road belly dancers, and Bognor-based pom-pom troupes the Wonder Girls and the Southern Starlights.

Entries that have also been confirmed include, Mod Mums, a united Rustington schools’ float, the Regis Troopers, and the village’s own princess and her attendants.

The grand fête will also be packed with plenty of fun to keep the whole family amused.

Pet Doctors is hosting a lighthearted dog show. Judging will take place at 2.30pm and will be across four classes: dog with the ‘waggiest’ tail, prettiest bitch, most handsome dog and best over-seven dog.

Those wishing to put their pets forward can do so on the day or by calling Lisa or Sasha, on 01903 785762.

Dance instructor Dani Heppenstall will be leading the afternoon’s activities with a massive Zumba session, followed by a display by students from The Lorna Benson School of Dance

There will also be a display by Angmering-based falconer Kevin Lochner, of Hawking About, while animal charity Canine Partners will be explaining how dogs can help improved the lives of disabled people at its stall.

l On Sunday (June 16), Rustington Short Mat Bowls Club holds its popular tournament at The Woodland Centre, Woodlands Avenue, from 9am -5pm. At 6.30pm a festival Songs of Praise will be held at the Methodist Church’s garden, in Claigmar Road.

See next week’s Gazette (Thursday, June 20) for our carnival coverage and details of more festival events.