Pictures: Newton Abbot Easter event draws big crowds to town centre

Families gathered in Newton Abbot town centre on Easter Saturday (4 April) as the town council’s 2026 programme of free events got underway.

A range of activities drew visitors throughout the day, including hourly egg and spoon races and the distribution of free chocolate eggs by Mayor Cllr Colin Parker, his wife Jean, and fellow councillors.

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Live entertainment featured music from the Hot House Combo, alongside a walkabout character chef and giant egg. 

Performances also took place at St Leonard’s Tower, where the Raddon Hill Clog Morris Dancers and Vanhulle Dance Theatre attracted crowds.

Children’s activities proved especially popular, with a face painter, balloon modeller and a craft table run by Kate Green of Creative Newton Abbot all reporting high demand. 

An egg hunt organised by the Yellow Umbrella gift shop also drew strong interest.

Planned market stalls were cancelled due to forecast high winds, but attendance remained high throughout the day.

Event organiser Natalie Hicks said: “It was a cracking start to our events programme.

“We were worried at first that without the market people wouldn’t turn up but boy, how wrong we were.

“And although last year we had trouble giving away the free eggs, this year we had to send out for more supplies.

“We’re so pleased that everyone seemed to be having a great time and we’re very grateful to all the people who made it possible.”

Mayor Cllr Colin Parker said the event marked a positive start to the year’s activities.

“What a brilliant way to launch our 2026 events programme which I know requires a huge effort from Natalie and her colleagues,” he said.

“I’m nearing the end of my term of office before the new Mayor is appointed next month and it’s been an honour for me and my wife Jean to be here.

“So many smiling faces, so many families enjoying some free entertainment, what’s not to like?

“I’m just so pleased that Newton Abbot Town Council is able to spread a little happiness in these challenging times.”