Into the Light parade to mark two years since New Ferry explosion

An anniversary event called 'Into the Light' will take place on Monday, March 25 to mark two years since the blast destroyed the town.

Wirral Council have been working with local residents to develop an appropriate parade to ensure no-one forgets what happened to New Ferry.

Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said: “From immediately after the explosion Council staff have been closely involved in both helping those affected by the blast and working on rebuilding the town centre.

“This lantern parade will ensure that the people of New Ferry know they have not been forgotten and will hopefully serve as a reminder to all those farther afield that the town continues to need our help and support.

“In order for this event to be a success we need the community to get involved, so tell your family and friends, come along and get involved.”

Lantern making workshops with specially commissioned artists will take place for the wider community on Saturday, March 16.

Earlier this year, public consultation took place for possible residential developments for the area and now the council have given the green light to invest £1.3m to help bring the new residential developments alive.

The plans include buying derelict and dilapidated properties in the area, which are currently in private ownership, and demolishing them.

Last week the council also approved £200,000 to support residents and businesses affected by the explosion.

Anyone can make a lantern by popping in to Windsor Close Community House, Windsor Close, CH62 5BX between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, March 16.

Commissioned artists will be on hand to guide everyone who comes along to the drop-in event and all will take away a lantern which they can use to join the 'Into the Light' parade on March 25.

For more information about the anniversary event contact engagement officer for Wirral South, Shannon Kennedy via email on shannonkennedy@wirral.gov.uk or call 07771938871.