THE anti immigration demonstration in Wisbech Park may have grabbed the headlines but organisers of a community day across town were determined to show a kinder, gentler side.
At the multi cultural Rosmini Centre in Queens Road – which enjoys funding that ranges from the county council to the BBC’s Children in Need – an international flavoured event drew large crowds.
It was officially opened by the new Mayor of Wisbech, Councillor Samantha Hoy, who described it as “a lovely event”.
And she told organisers: “You should all be very proud”.
Throughout the day X Factor style met Britain’s Got Talent in a multi cultural marquee whilst visitors enjoyed not only the best of European food but also snapped up hot dogs and cream cakes.
It was billed as an International Children’s Festival and included a balloon launch, bouncy castle, music and Sumo wrestling for kids.
One community blogger said: “I don’t do slogans but ‘hope not hate’ seems pretty good really.
“I can’t think of a time when I was more proud to be part of the Wisbech community.”
Dean Reeves, one of the organisers, said the event was moved forward to coincide with the rally so that people could see and believe the opposition to the Wisbech Park rally.
“We want to be a positive focus for the community” he said.
Rosmini development manager Anita Grodkiewicz said that in its eight years the centre has worked with new arrivals to promote integration through social contact.
She said it was “not an accident” they planned the event to coincide with the rally.
Offering a “positive safe alternative” to what was happening across town was vital, she said.
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