The Gilpin 2020 launch event will include presentations from a range of local voluntary and philanthropic organisations, as well as environmental groups. There will be a colourful celebration through Broad Street and entertainment from local groups, demonstrating how a range of issues, from local to international, are being supported by the local community.

The ancient Market House will host a produce market and there will be live music from the town band.

A new children’s choir which was launched last week will also be invited to sing and the, organiser, Emma Rowland told the Ross Gazette she woud love more children to join her and prepare for this event for the town, and more in the future.

The Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will launch their booklet The Picturesque Wye Tour, which has been written to celebrate the Gilpin 2020 festival.

Mayor Jane Roberts said: “When I was elected as Mayor, I made it my mission to promote and encourage the work of our active voluntary sector here in Ross on Wye. This event celebrates a town working together, to ensure our environment and culture live on for future generations. I would encourage everyone to wrap up warm and come and meet our local heroes, who strengthen our local community with their philanthropic work. Ross on Wye is a beautiful place to visit, all year round.”

The event will culminate in a procession from the town to light the beacon at the Prospect, the first public pleasure ground in England, which overlooks the launch site of the tour boats.

There will be road closures during the day, on and around Broad Street, to allow for the festivities. For more information on Gilpin 2020 events, the Gilpin tour and the history of picturesque tourism, visit www.gilpin2020.org