THE MAY MERRIE - May Bank Holiday,
Kingston upon Thames, May 5th.

'Sounds and Sweet Airs that give delight' reverberated around the streets of the ancient town of Kingston on Bank Holiday Monday. There was singing, dancing and merrymaking everywhere. The sun shone and the happy crowds were in holiday mood.

Thameside Harmony Chorus assembled at the Old Market Hall, wearing their red and white striped costumes, ready to join in the festivities in the Market Place, under the stern gaze of Queen Anne's statue. The first song was Zippadeedoodah, followed by a couple of songs originally by the Beatles, then the soothing 'Lullaby', which had the desired effect on some little babies in the crowd. They heard 'Always' and 'Wonderful World' and the first session finished with the lively 'Alexander's Ragtime Band'.

Later on, in the afternoon, Thameside got ready to sing again, this time in Clarence Street, on a rather windy corner. They were delighted to be joined by Councillor Shiraz Mirza, the Mayor of Kingston, and his entourage. Photographs were duly taken with His Worship, and then the singing was resumed. Thameside was delighted to see old friends, past members and family supporters as well as the families all out having a good time. A little girl in a pink dress, clutching a blue balloon came along to join in, or was she escaping a rather noisy little dog among the listeners.

The performance ended at last, just in time before a giant giraffe stiltwalker appeared next to capture the attention of the whole street. May Merrie was a delightful and enjoyable occasion and Thameside plan to return to Kingston again next year, hoping for another sunny day.