Maryport estate lights up for 10th year of annual lantern festival

The Centre, formerly Ewanrigg and Netherton Community Centre, held its annual lantern parade.

The popular event, now in it's tenth year saw a range of homemade lanterns in an array of styles, from giant critters to small faces.

Two of the town's PCSO's pose with their lanterns. (Image: Tom Kay)

The theme was Halloween which meant there were plenty of ghouls and ghosts and the occasional evil witch taking part.

The event saw about four hundred people descend through the doors of the centre in the days proceeding the procession which took place on October, 24 making about 140 lanterns.

The event also had approximately 30 volunteers giving up their time to make refreshments, help with sticking, papering, making, and chatting to people.

Members of PINC pose with their glowing creation. (Image: Tom Kay)

As well as members of the public many different groups took part in the event coming from The Dales Care Home, Pinc (Pride in North Cumbria), Speech After Stroke Club as well as two of  the towns local PCSO’s.

After being started by members of The Centre a decade ago the parade has gone from strength to strength, with organisers praising the community spirit and fantastic turnout of the 2023 event.

The estate came alive with lanterns and music throughout the evening. (Image: Tom Kay)

Sharon Barnes, Engagement Officer said: ‘Bill and I started the lantern festival ten years ago. It’s always been as much about making lanterns, as it is about an opportunity for all of us to make new friends and connections within our community.

"This year has exceeded all expectations, we’ve had a fantastic turnout, with everyone helping each other, getting stuck in and making us proud.’