IT was carnival time for Heart of England Mencap.
More than 120 local people with learning disabilities recently gathered for a special ‘Carnival of Celebration’ at Ettington Community Centre.
It was the biggest gathering ever hosted by the charity, which has multiple services to support people with learning disabilities, across Stratford, Shipston, Leamington, Southam, Warwick, Studley, Evesham and Malvern.
The carnival ran all day, with plenty of fun and games both indoors and out.
There was a disco, live music, Escape Arts workshops, punch and judy show and jester, as well as giant inflatables and outdoor games, from the coconut shy to the tin can alley. A buffet and luxury ice creams were also served up.
The carnival was funded by money raised at Heart of England Mencap’s Hollywood Ball back in 2015.
Charity chief executive Helena Wallis said: “It was a really great day thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, customers and staff as well.
“We had an idea for a new annual celebration of our charity and all those who make it what is is, and our carnival was the result of that. It was a brilliant chance to bring a huge number of our customers from many different services in many different places together, to have some good old fashioned fun. We look forward to doing it again next year!”
