Wakefield’ first council estate holds ‘awesome’ free family event 

The sound of African Drumming, children playing and music pumping from ‘Wakefield’s first council estate’ cheered up a rainy day in Portobello at their annual gala. 

The event organised by Portobello Community Forum and funded by Wakefield Council’s Cultural Grant was due to take place at Castle Grove park but due to the wet weather, it was held at Portobello Community Centre and The Rainbow Hub in the heart of the area. 

There were crafts, live animals on display, stalls, balloon modelling, a magician and live entertainment and workshops such as African Drumming. 

Organiser Sarah Cutts, who is based at Portobello Community Centre, said: “Portobello is one of the most wonderful communities and its celebrations like this show just how amazing the area is. 

“Despite having a last minute change of plans due to the weather, there was still hundreds of people who attended both venues throughout the day.

“We also had mayor Jodie Pritchard, MP Simon Lightwood and Councillor Mohammad Ayub (Yubi) attend to show their support.” 

Rate My Takeaway youtuber Danny Mei Lan Malin and his wife Sophie aka Mr and Mrs Yorkshire hosting the event. 

Danny, who has recently moved to Wakefield, said: “It was an incredible day and fantastic people and plenty of talented artists and performers there too. 

“There were also free cakes on offer made by staff and volunteers from St Helen’s Church and The Spring cafe – I gave the cakes a solid 10.” 

There was also Henna Art, Wakefield Council Climate Action stalls and pebble painting from the Portobello Craft and Camera group.