Puffin Festival hits the spot
Amble Puffin Festival got off to a colourful and exuberant start, despite a disappointing setback on the opening day. Intense heavy rain meant the opening ceremony had to be postponed to the following morning, but the young singers and dancers soon shook off the damp and misty weather and cheered everyone with their delightful performances.
The event was officially opened by Captain Coquet aka Paul Morrison, RSPB Warden for Coquet Island, who wore a giant puffin hat throughout the day. Local poet Ian Williams recited two of his poems, one written especially for the Festival.
Children from Busy Bees nursery, Amble First School and St Cuthbert’s RC first School then performed for a large appreciative audience. Choreography was by Virginia Kennedy, Joanne Burn and Emma Dunn. A special song was written for the event by noted local folk musician Sandra Kerr (of Bagpuss fame). A rendition of “Muffin the Puffling” provided a delightful encore.
In the afternoon, the Town Square filled with local environmental groups and organisations, there was a Happy Dog show, judged by TV Vet Jason Atherton, a brass band, belly dancing and music from Harbour Lights Choir. Hundreds of people thronged the Square, wandered along the Harbour and down to the Pier where the children’s crab catch competition took place.
Busy Bees puffling dance (2:11)
Amble First School sing “Muffin the Puffling” (1:40)
Here are a selection of images from throughout the day:
what waste on time