THERE was a jubilant atmosphere on Sunday at the Cally Road Festival, a vibrant celebration of the diverse trade, community and culture on Caledonian Road.

The event marked 10 years since the festival took to the streets and a 10,000-strong crowd came out to celebrate in style. There was something for all the ages – a fusion of music, movement, culture and arts, not to mention local food traders serving up treats for hungry tums.

An array of musical talents performed, from Hindi singer Sunny to local bands including the Brunk ska band and The Blues Brothers.

The crowd was also delighted by a surprise appearance from Dave Elvis, the legendary octogenarian Elvis tribute act, who came out to serenade the crowd despite being wheelchair-bound.

Dave is well known in the community, having performed in his signature bouffant wig and gold lamé suit at venues in London and across the UK, not to mention a stint as an X Factor contestant in 2007.

In 2019, Cally Fest awarded Dave a lifetime achievement award for his services to the road. After being housebound for the past two years, Dave looked set to miss the event this year.

But after hearing the roar of the crowd from his flat, he couldn’t resist coming out for a surprise performance – delighting fans with renditions of Love Me Tender, All Shook Up and That’s Alright Mama.

Dave’s longtime manager and best mate Tad described him as “a Cally legend, and the nicest bloke you’ll ever meet”.

This year the event also crowned its “Cally Champions” – local heroes deserving special recognition for everything they do for the community. This included the owners of the Sunflour bakery, a local family-run business that keeps its sourdough affordable for everyone.

The festival felt extra special after a pandemic-induced hiatus, with the whole community pulling together to ensure the event was a success.

Organiser Russell Swallow said: “It’s been a hard time and as a community we needed to celebrate. Everyone took something from the event that was special to them.”