THE Croydon Heritage Festival is returning for 2015, bringing a range of events and attractions to celebrate the borough's rich history.
Once again the festival, running this year from June 20-28, is being organised by 400-year-old charity The Whitgift Foundation.
The theme of this year's festival will be 'Famous Croydon', highlighting the town's links to many iconic faces and events, while also celebrating local rising stars of the future.
Croydon has a wealth of famous connections, many of which have been forgotten over time.
The town is home of the Brit School, which produced the likes of international superstars Amy Winehouse and Adele; a location for the hit Hollywood blockbuster The Da Vinci Code; the birthplace of the much loved literary imps The Flower Fairies, and the home of the UK's first airport, regularly frequented by Marilyn Monroe.
These stories and icons will be brought to life by the festival programme, which will follow three key strands – Famous Croydon of the past, present and future.
Working with the older generation to uncover fascinating local stories from the past, the festival will explore Croydon's heritage links to famous people and events from years gone by.
The third Croydon Heritage Festival will get under way on Saturday, June 20, with Heritage Day 2015 taking place in North End.
Other highlights of the week will include a newly launched walking trail, inviting people to visit local landmarks and famous spots, following a specially produced map to help them find their way.
Young stars of the future will be invited to use their artistic talents to illustrate how they see their Croydon of the future, with opportunities to exhibit work throughout the festival or perform as part of Heritage Day.
Last year's festival was a huge success, with thousands of visitors enjoying more than 100 events throughout the town.
Martin Corney, chief executive of The Whitgift Foundation, said: "This is our third year for Croydon Heritage Festival, and it looks set to be the best yet.
"It's fantastic to see the local community are again ready to support the festival with an overwhelming level of enthusiasm and engagement, especially working around our exciting new theme for 2015.
"There is so much going for Croydon; the festival will be a great asset to the changing image of the town."
