Great weather, a great turnout, and fantastic floats all helped to make this year’s Frome Carnival, which took place last Saturday, one of the best yet according to the organisers.
The organisers have applauded the local community who flocked to the day’s events in their droves, helping to make the annual fundraising event a great success.
The day got off to a fine start with the children’s procession in the afternoon, which was enjoyed by around 800 people, before the evening procession and main event kicked off.
The organisers have estimated that around 20,000 people lined the streets of Frome for both the children’s procession and the evening’s illuminated procession.
“It went absolutely brilliantly,” said June Barnes, who is chair of the carnival committee. “The weather was nice, and there were plenty of people there to enjoy the great entertainment.
“All the entrants worked really hard on their floats, and the quality of the procession and dresses worn by the masquerades this year was fantastic.
“There is still money coming in, but we know that the day has raised over £5,300 – which is 36% more than last year’s total and the most since 2006, so we’re really happy. The money will be going to the carnival fund which ultimately goes back into the town through various causes.”
In recent years, donations have enabled the Carnival charity to provide an ambulance station vehicle for St. John Ambulance in Frome
June added, “There are a lot of people that need thanking for their hard work, including the Rotarians and members of the Lions Club who co-ordinated the collections. Also the marshalls, without whom there simply wouldn’t be carnival.
“The main thing is that it was fun – that is what the carnival is all about. The event was marred only by some people who decided to park in Weymouth Road, despite the fact that it was closed. Not only did this obstruct people’s view of the procession but it made it difficult for some of the floats to get through.”
