GREAT weather, a great turnout and fantastic floats helped to make this year’s Frome carnival, which took place on Saturday, a huge success.
The organisers have applauded the local community who flocked to the day’s events in their thousands, helping to make the annual fundraising event even bigger than last year.
The day began with the children’s procession at 2.30pm before the evening procession kicked off at 7.00pm.
The organisers have estimated that between 20-25,000 people lined the streets of Frome for both the children’s procession and the evening procession.
June Barnes, chair of the carnival committee said, “It went brilliantly. Everyone was having such a fantastic time. We were blessed yet again by the fantastic weather and everyone who attended was happy and jolly.
“All entrants worked so hard on their floats or on foot. The talent that is involved with putting on a float or dressing up is incredible.
“A special mention to the children’s procession who were not able to use their floats due to some inconsiderate parking on Weymouth Road. Some motorists had moved cones, which were used to keep the road clear, and parked on the side of the road which meant the floats could not use that street. As a result, the children had to walk the route. But it was fun nonetheless and the crowd applauded the commitment from the younger carnival entrants.
“We have had a quick count and we have raised over £5,000 which is an incredible amount. The money will be going to the carnival fund, which ultimately goes back into the town through various causes.”
June added, “There are a lot of people to thank but particularly to the small yet dedicated committee and marshalls, without them none of this would have happened. I would also just like to wish chief marshall John Dean a hasty recovery. He has always helped with the carnival and this year he was unfortunately too ill to attend.
“Each year the carnival changes slightly to give the day its own identity. I hope next year that more schools will get involved and we can have a few more helpers on the day. Of course the Weymouth Road situation needs to be sorted. The main thing is that the day was fun and that is what the carnival is all about.”
