Bedford's Big High Street Showcase is Back this Saturday!

Following the tremendous success of last year's first ever Big High Street Showcase in Bedford, this Saturday will see Bedford High Street once again taken over by a very special summer festival of fun showcasing the best of the High Street, the wider town centre and of Bedford Borough.

In an economic landscape for UK town centres which has seen many high streets elsewhere declining alarmingly in recent years, this event is one of many actions being taken locally in support of a vibrant, successful town centre. It is intended not only to provide a great day of free family fun but also to showcase the wealth of excellent local business in Bedford and the many reasons to visit and enjoy the town centre.

Commenting, Mayor Dave Hodgson said: "The Big High Street Showcase was a tremendous success last year, with huge numbers of additional visitors attracted to the town centre. We want as many people as possible to come and enjoy the fun this year, too, with an array of activities, stalls, entertainment and more on offer. We're looking forward to a great atmosphere once again, as people take the opportunity to enjoy and support their town centre at this genuine community event."

Last year's hugely popular event attracted tens of thousands of people to the High Street area and saw footfall double. This year's event will once again see a range of local businesses, community groups and entertainers all coming together on Bedford High Street and Mill Street to make it a day to remember for all visitors.

The event is organised by Bedford Borough Council and will feature entertainment and activities provided by a large number of volunteers, community groups and businesses. It is intended that the day will help to promote Bedford's town centre retailers, particularly the fantastic wealth of independent retailers in Bedford, many of which are located in and around the High Street.

Over 50 businesses will be trading outside on the day, demonstrating their products and services, with many at special event prices. Further events include children's entertainment; craft activities and funfair rides; the Owls from The Raptor Foundation plus the live music and dance stage featuring everything from choirs, bands and soloists to street dancing, swing and classical Indian dance.

New for 2014 will be the opportunity to also get involved in martial arts, lawn bowls, tennis, practise your footballing skills with Beds F.A, join a mini gun run with the Air Cadets or sign-up for ultimate combat gaming with Battlefield Live.

A photographic competition entitled "High Street is…" will be launched at the Showcase, inviting you to capture images of High Street through your eyes. The competition is open to all, regardless of age or experience - with fantastic prizes to be won. Flyers with competition details will be available from the Bedford Camera Club stall at the BedPop Shop at 68 High Street.

For further information, including details of the road closure which will be in place, see www.bedford.gov.uk/highstreetshowcase