MEMBERS of Wellington Majorettes will be taking to the streets on Saturday (June 22) to raise funds for their 2020 French Exchange trip. 

Family and friends of members are sponsoring the team for the five-hour march, which takes place from 11am-4pm.

They hope to perform at least six displays along the route at stop-offs such as Ivy House, SeeAbility, Wellington House, Lodge Close and Bulford before finishing up at St John’s Church at about 3.30pm to entertain at a cream tea event. 

The team also have a house-to-house collection permit for the day to collect any loose change passers-by wish to donate. Names will be put into a prize draw for every £1 donated.

Team leader Louise Brierley said: “As a young majorette back in the 1980s I always looked forward to our annual French exchanges and I wanted the team we have today to experience the same.

“Last year 25 members went on the exchange where we teamed up and made great memories with French Majorettes, Les Rochal Twirl, who also returned to Wellington and joined us for the carnival. 

“It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved – being away from home was difficult for some members, communicating in a different language was another challenge and experiencing different food and learning about a different culture was all part of the experience. 

“It has proved to be very popular as we now have 40 members signed up to return next year. However, they each need to raise about £250, hence the sponsored march.”

The majorettes diary is nearly fully booked this year with performances most weekends at a local events. For more information about booking or joining the team contact Louise on 07796 933064 or email [email protected]