Leamington Carnival sizzling success - The Leamington Observer

Leamington Carnival sizzling success

Leamington Editorial 15th Jul, 2014 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

SIZZLING sunshine welcomed the return of the Leamington Carnival.

It had been 18 years since the last procession of floats rolled through the town so there was plenty to celebrate when the event was revived on Saturday (July 12.)

A large crowd cheered as the participants made their way down the Parade into Old Town, before ending at the Pump Room Gardens.

Here there was a fun fair, a variety of stalls and live entertainment from the bandstand throughout the afternoon.




Jamie Walker, chairman of the organising committee, said: “We were overwhelmed with the thousands of spectators who lined the streets of Leamington to watch the 14 floats pass. It was a very special, and proud moment for us.

“The committee has worked extremely hard to ensure that this was a popular, enjoyable and successful event. We’ve received lots of positive comments. It’s great to hear this.”


The carnival – which dates back to at least 1912 – was for many years a fixture of Leamington life but lack of interest saw the last procession held in 1996, with the event surviving in fete form only for a further two years.

Nearly £800 was raised by a street collection on the day to be put back into local organisations and stalls also collected hundreds of pounds for local charities.

Mr Walker added: “We had a six month time frame to plan what normally takes 12 months so we are extremely pleased and thankful with the amount raised. With it being its first year, it can only get better.”

The delighted organising committee has already confirmed the event will be held again in 2015. Email [email protected] to register an interest in assisting with the event.

Having fun in the sun. 29.014.007.leam.jm22

The lone ranger and Captain Jack Sparrow. 29.014.007.leam.jm10

Is that Warwick Castle visiting Leamington? 29.014.007.leam.jm17

More than a dozen colourful floats made up the procession. Picture courtesy of Steve Jane, Strobix Photography.

Snap happy. 29.014.007.leam.jm14

Leamington Mayor, coun John Knight, addresses the crowd with carnival King and Queen Gavin Fowler and Rachel Ann John. Picture courtesy of Steve Jane, Strobix Photography.

Singers, dancers and other entertainers performed throughout the afternoon. Picture courtesy of Steve Jane, Strobix Photography.

Leamington Lions and Leamington FC teamed up to create a football-themed float and gave away complimentary tickets to up and coming pre-season friendlies. (s)

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.

Reader Travel

Check out all of the latest reader travel offers to get your hands on some free gifts.

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Leamington Observer.

Subscribe

Receive a weekly update to your inbox by signing up to our weekly newsletter.