On Air Now

Breakfast

6:00am - 10:00am

Now Playing

Morecambe light festival calls for crowdfunding help for 2024 parade

The Angels of Freedom attraction at Baylight '23

A festival of light which made a successful debut in 2023 is calling for help to put on a community parade full of fun, street performers, music and dance.

Baylight has begun a crowdfunding campaign for its return next year and has already raised more than £13,000 towards a target of £22,265.

The first ever Baylight festival in February brought huge crowds to Morecambe and was hailed as an "amazing" event for the town.

The new festival of light saw Morecambe Promenade lit up between the Midland and the town hall as crowds gathered to enjoy the illuminated spectacle.

Despite wet weather, the Prom was teeming with people who soaked up the sights of 17 special lit-up attractions.

Pubs and restaurants were also packed as the event was a major boost to the town's hospitality economy at a traditionally quiet time of year.

Feedback for the event was almost universally positive.

An estimated 21,000 people attended and the event produced an economic impact of more than £800,000 for the local economy.

Read more: VIDEO and PHOTOS: Thousands enjoy hugely successful first ever Morecambe festival of light - Beyond Radio

Baylight '23 included a parade but organisers Morecambe Sparkle CIC want to make it even bigger next year.

"Some feedback commented on how crowded the promenade was and ramps made it difficult for wheelchair users," said a Morecambe Sparkle CIC spokesperson.

"We’ve listened, and for Baylight 24 we want to temporarily close Marine Road Central to create a bigger, better and safer parade."

Baylight '24 will take place from February 15-17 2024.

The fundraiser is part of Crowdfund Lancashire which gives anyone a chance to create local culture and sport projects and support the projects which matter most to them.

Anyone can contribute towards their community by chipping in as little as £2 to help bring ideas to life.

Lancashire County Council will then support eligible projects with a pledge from the new £500,000 Lancashire Culture & Sport Fund (LCSF).

You can donate here.

Baylight '23 was funded by Lancashire County Council, Morecambe Town Council and Morecambe Business Improvement District (BID), supported by Lancaster City Council. 

More from Local News

Recently Played Songs