Weather-resilient Straw Bear gives it his all as crowds flock to Whittlesey

Now seriously, you didn’t think a little rain (well actually quite a lot of it) was going to halt Straw Bear 2023?

Organisers bringing back the festival after a two-year pandemic interruption, had all points covered.

“Wet weather plan in action,” they announced as the skies opened.

https://twitter.com/DrDiniel/status/1614223491771035649

“First dance spots have no dancing outside. Teams will be in Ivy Leaf Club, Quinns behind the Black Bull, or Childers Club on Station Road. Hopefully back outside soon!”

And so they were, with thousands flocking to Whittlesey to join the celebrations.

Morris dancers from across the county – and country – made their way to the Fenland town for a colourful and spectacular day of entertainment.

“We hope you’re all excited to see the Straw Bears back on the streets,” said the organisers.

Breakfast at The Straw Bear. Great to be back in Whittlesey after 3 years. pic.twitter.com/uj3ULZpB8P

— Martin Barstow (@MartinABarstow) January 14, 2023

And yes, we were.

A very rare sighting of a Whittlesey straw bear and a David Lowndes in the same picture @StrawBearFest @PTdavidlowndes2 @peterboroughtel pic.twitter.com/YNrtGMuh2x

— Toby Wood (@TobyWoody) January 14, 2023

Though there was a disquieting moment when visitors realised the public conveniences in the town centre were closed.

“They’ve been closed nearly three years,” posted one resident on social media to a visitor’s inquiry.

Some live footage for you of Straw Bear Festival 2023 in Whittlesey @Chris_Stark pic.twitter.com/Wg1uzjTZ7s

— Nadia Fletcher (@naddyf17) January 14, 2023

“There are toilets in Wetherspoons nearby – just go in and up the stairs. No one will notice or care too much.”