Vaisakhi Slough procession was a great success
Despite the unpredictable Slough weather, the Nagar Kirtan procession held in Slough yesterday (13/4) was a great success, according to officers who policed the event.
Held annually by members of the Sikh community to celebrate Vaisakhi, which marks the birth of their religion, the procession attracted several thousand people from all over Slough and beyond.
“As usual, this year’s procession was a good-natured, family-oriented event,” said Community Safety Inspector Mark Millward. “There was a good rapport between police, Slough Borough Council and the organisers of the procession.”
Insp Millward, under the command of Ch Insp Dave Parker, led a team of officers and police community support officers (PCSOs) from Berkshire East, who all worked together to facilitate one of the biggest public gatherings to be held in Slough.
“The event was very well organised and we received a lot of positive feedback from the community. In fact, everything was a success except the weather: we had rain, wind, hail, everything except snow, but despite this, people had a good time.
“The police’s main role was to assist the procession through traffic management, road closures and other public safety measures. As far as our officers are concerned, the Vaisakhi procession is one of the best events of the year, with real community spirit - and some fantastic food!”
Starting at around 11am at the Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Sheehy Way, Wexham, the procession wound its way slowly through the streets until it ended at the Ramgharia Gurdwara in Woodland Avenue, Baylis, at about 2.30pm. Police did not anticipate any disorder during the day and, as expected, there were no incidents or arrests.
Insp Millward said: “We would like to thank all the organisers and participants for a very peaceful and enjoyable day. We’re looking forward to next year’s procession.”
Thames Valley Police ~ Slough