3-082-645 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Battle of Flowers at Eastbourne, 1895. 'The carnival at Eastbourne is over, and the excitement which has been simmering in this delightful southern resort is now only a memory. Save that sudden showers occasionally reminded visitors of the month, the battle of flowers was an undeniable success. Abundant subjects for an artist's pencil were provided in the varied programme of the week, which did much to popularise the scenes so familiar to our Continental friends. The particular occasion depicted in our pages is the passing of carriages before the Mayor of Eastbourne's grand stand, after the presentation of prizes. The battle of flowers took place on April 24, and was witnessed by at least 20,000 spectators. The procession from the Town Hall stretched half a mile, and several of the vehicles in it were exquisitely decorated. The battle lasted two hours, and was a very brilliant sight'. From "Illustrated London News", 1895.