Companies pal up for a party (From Swindon Advertiser)

Companies pal up for a party

5:42pm Friday 1st June 2012 in News

ONE of the busiest town centre roads was turned into a hive of celebrations as businesses hosted a diamond jubilee street party.

Employees, customers, clients and people living near-by flocked to Commercial Road to enjoy fancy dress displays, a Punch and Judy show, face-painting and a balloon release.

It was organised by Amanda Franks, the managing director of Frankly Recruitment, who said everyone had got behind the celebrations.

“Businesses in Commercial Road don’t get the chance to mix,” she said.

“This was a fantastic opportunity to break the mould and have a bit of fun.

“It is great to be working with each other instead of competing for a change.

“Everybody has jumped on board and everyone is really up for it.

“I didn’t tell anybody what to do, people have been creative and come up with ideas.”

There was a tug of war, arm wrestling, a retro tuck shop and afternoon tea as part of the celebrations.

Wise Employment, C & D Recruitment, Blue Arrow, Key Security and Office Angels were just some of the businesses based in the road which got involved.

Robert Skerten, the owner of Henry George, in Commercial Road, said: “What is good is that although we all know each other, nobody interacts very well because we are all competitors.

“This has actually been a good occasion where everyone can interact.”

Frankly Recruitment ran a cake competition as part of the party, which raised funds for Swindon Guide Dogs.

Alan Fletcher, the chairman of Swindon Guide Dogs, was judging the competition with his wife, Shirley.

“Shirley is judging them on their looks and I am judging on the taste and texture,” he said.

“It is great to be here and be part of the celebrations.

“It should be a really nice bank holiday weekend and this has just started it off.”