ORGANISERS of Leamington Carnival are looking to the future with renewed hope.
It has been a rollercoaster ride for the event since it was successfully revived in 2014 after an 18 year absence from the town’s streets.
The following year’s carnival was cancelled after struggling to recruit volunteers onto the organising committee, but it made another successful return in 2016. A lack of floats had threatened to stop the procession this year.
But the carnival-spirit was much in evidence – even if the weather was not the best – for Saturday’s big event.
Thousands lined the streets to support the parade which saw more than 15 organisations involved, from floats to walkers, all collecting money for charity. The carnival also featured a festival of stalls, fun and games in the Pump Room Gardens.
Carnival spokeswoman Steph Manning said: “The parade was the longest we’ve ever had, but the fewest floats, as most organisations took part last minute and entered either cars, or even walked.
Everyone who took part was judged by Leamington mayor Caroline Evetts who picked Hannah School of Dance for the Best Dressed Float, Stagecoach Dance as Best Walkers, and Belvoir Sales & Lettings for the Best Dressed Vehicle.
The parade was great, it was nice to see the town busy, it wasn’t the busiest, but despite the weather, it was a good turn out.
“The festival was also great, with over 30 stalls and of course Barkers Amusements, it was great to see everyone enjoying themselves.
Mayor Caroline Evetts said: “It was a fabulous day, the crowds were out in force celebrating our wonderful communities and town. It was an honour to be asked to judge the floats that were so creative and a riot of colour and then to lead the festive parade in the wonderful Tuk Tuk.”
We are reviewing our plans for 2018 and ensuring we engage with businesses over the coming weeks and months to get interested for next years event, which is set to be totally remodelled for a much bigger event.
Anyone wanting to support the carnival is being asked to get in touch with the planning team. The team is currently looking for a local design company and an accountant to support the carnival through their services. Visit www.leamingtoncarnival.org.uk for further details.
