Torchlight procession through Preston city centre seeks extra backing

A dazzling torchlight procession led by Spark! Pic: @gazcook

One of the city’s most spectacular evening events is asking for help to grow bigger and bolder this year.

The Lancashire Encounter’s torchlight procession is set for Saturday 16 September and will parade through Preston city centre.

Preston City Council is appealing for community groups to get involved and help create giant angelic characters and puppets to be part of the parade.

A procession of more than 300 community group participants is expected with more than 100 bands and dancers also taking part.

Organisers of the torchlight procession are also urging people to donate to help them make it an enlarged event this year.

The procession of light was part of the Encounter Pic: Benjamin Wareing

A crowdfunding campaign has been set up through Spacehive with the aim of putting nearly £25,000 extra behind this year’s procession.

Executive producer at the Encounter Festival, Esther Ferry Kennington, said: “We are committed to fostering community spirit, promoting local talent, and creating magical moments.

“With your generous support, we can amplify the Torchlight Procession’s impact, uplift spirits, and inspire unity.”

Any community groups or anyone wanting to get involved in this year’s torchlight procession can contact the Lancashire Encounter festival team on esther@lancsencounter.co.uk

The Lancashire Encounter Festival takes place at venues across Preston city centre both indoors and outdoors during the weekend of 15-17 September with the majority of events being free to attend.