The idea
We want to ensure the sustainability of the Linthwaite Leadboilers festival that was restarted in 2018. To promote a feeling of unique identity and belonging for the residents of Linthwaite using the village folklore tale of residents trying to melt lead shot (during the Civil war) to disguise where it had come from, by boiling it in a cauldron of water! This tale has been given a Robin Hood twist by encouraging attendees to donate to our local foodbank by leaving donations on the day in a huge 3D cauldron! One of our founding principles is that the festival is free to attend and can be enjoyed at little to no cost, as we are aware that the summer can be an expensive time, and we do not wish to exclude anyone from celebrating 'all things Linfit'. We try to keep craft stalls and food providers as local as possible. All entertainment is free to take part and enjoy. Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. We aim to break even. All is organised by unpaid volunteers.
What we'll deliver
- Local groups and businesses who have been engaged and collaborated with to promote their activities and services
- Visible presence of security and medical care to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
- Friendly competition thorough no cost participation in the dog show, run the hill challenge and/or tug of war
- Inclusivity - All ages, demographics and abilities included and considered thoughout
- A reason for people to come together and have a sense of belonging to the village
- People improving their skills in organising and delivering an event
- Improved mental wellbeing from being outdoors in nature, socialising and physical activities
- Social cohesion, all groups from Linthwaite coming together with a common theme and celebrating it's diversity
- Singing, artistic performances and dancing from schools, local community groups and other artists
- Creative arts such as music, art, poetry and craft activities
Why it's a great idea
Linthwaite was the only village in the Colne Valley without a local identity based festival, even though it had a local folklore tale. Linthwaite has lacked a village identity not having a clearly focused village centre, and a depletion in village resources such as the town hall, youth club, community centre, etc. The festival gives a sense of community, identity, and belonging for the people of Linthwaite, increased pride in what we do, and what we offer. It also encourages increased revenue for local businesses, and profile of local businesses, community groups and facilities. We provide a free stall space for information giving, such as Andy's Mans club, the police, Kirklees Place Standards. And for individuals it promotes getting outdoors, meeting friends, enjoying social events, improved mental and physical health for all.
Steps to get it done
- Delivery of the festival on 8th July 2023
- Food Bank collection at Morrisons in June 2023
- Infrastructure and compliance finalised by end May 2023
- Suppliers and exhibitors finalised by end April 2023
- Manpower planning completed end May 2023
- Accounts finalised for the event end July 2023
We collect for Foodbanks that provide for the Colne valley by having a trolley collection at Morrisons in Meltham a few weeks before the event, and promote our 'bring a food item' initiative widely in the weeks and months before the event, and collect non perishable items on the day, and deliver these to the food bank.
