Story of historic light festival preserved in park

Carol Sleight and David Clargo, pictured centre, said the festival was "magical"

Permanent mementos of a "magical" light show that drew hundreds of thousands of visitors in the 1950s have been installed in a town park.

The annual Lights of Leamington dazzled visitors to Jephson Gardens between 1951 and 1961, with illuminated displays, fireworks, live music, and a floating ballet stage.

Local arts company Whittle Productions said five information panels had been placed around the park to share the festival's story with visitors.

Directors Carole Sleight and David Clargo said in a statement: "The Lights of Leamington was a magical and much-loved event that lit up our town and the lives of so many."

"To see it now recognised on permanent display in Jephson Gardens is a fitting tribute to all those who created, experienced and remembered it," they added.

The signage follows a project from the same team to capture more than 100 stories from people who remembered the event.

In addition, colourful light displays transformed the park and the nearby Pump Room Gardens over five evenings last February during the Spotlight Festival, held in tribute to it.

Leamington Spa's light festival drew hundreds of thousands of visitors to the town each year between 1951 and 1961

The panels were funded by lottery grants and money from Warwick District Council.

Portfolio holder for neighbourhood at the authority, Will Roberts, applauded Whittle Productions for their work in "preserving a key strand of Leamington's cultural history".

"The Lights of Leamington display panels are a welcome addition to Jephson Gardens, reminding people of the joy that this beautiful public space has brought and continues to bring to residents and visitors to our district over the decades," he added.

A light show inspired by the festival was held in Jephson Gardens in February