Money raised during a milestone Sikh celebration led to a £1,200 donation to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Crowds gathered as the Nagar Kirtan procession snaked from Ipswich’s Guru Nanak Gurdwara, in Bramford Road, to Christchurch Park.
Along the way, they travelled via Chevallier Street, Valley Road, Norwich Road, St Matthews Street, Crown Street and Soane Street.
It was then followed by a celebration party in the park, marking the 50th anniversary since the Gurdwara – a place where Sikhs come together for congregational worship – opened in Ipswich.
Highlights included a number of ceremonies, speeches and free food and the colourful community event was attended by more than 1,500 people.
Money raised from a bucket collection during the procession raised just over £1,000, in addition to another £200 at the EACH stand in Christchurch Park.
There was a bucket collection and games, including a ‘guess the teddy name’ competition.
EACH volunteer John Skoyles spoke on-stage at the end of the ceremony and thanked everyone for their generous contributions.
Kam Singh, one of the organisers, said: “We chose EACH because we wanted to support a charity that does so much to help local children and were really pleased with the amounts raised and the money we donated.”
EACH Community Fundraiser Anne Austin said: “We’re so grateful for this fantastic and very generous donation. It sounds like a wonderful day of celebrations.”
