A HUGE turnout, even more creative entries and generous donations from the public have helped make this year’s Frome Carnival one of the best ever.
Carnival fever hit Frome on Saturday, with a children’s procession in the afternoon followed by the main procession in the evening. Organisers have applauded the local community, who flocked to the day’s events to support the spectacle and help Carnival spirit fill the town.
June Barnes, chair of the Carnival committee said she was delighted to see so many people turn up to watch the procession this year. “It was wonderful,” she said. “We estimate that around 20,000 turned out and it’s great to see the community supporting the event.
“This year, there were so many creative entries in the procession and the standard was very, very good. The Carnival really is a chance for people to be as creative as possible.
“I thought the Frome College entry was absolutely fantastic and really outstanding as it was their fist time entering.”
Out of all the entries registered for the evening procession, Hot Rock CC took The Butler and Tanner Cup as the best of the 1st prize winners from classes 1-5. The Chuckles Carnival Club Cup, awarded to the best of the 1st prize winners from all walking classes, went to Natasha Shaw of Fire Bird. The Town Crier Best Costume Cup went to Dee Gees CC.
An initial count of collections suggests that over £4,800 was raised from the day, a slight increase on last year. The carnival is a registered charity and funds go to local people in need, which in the past have covered everything from electric scooters for disabled people to playgroups.
June said, “Carnival really is for the people of Frome. All the money collected goes back into the charity account to help those in need in the town. We are slightly disappointed as we have only just beaten last year’s total by about £10, but we are really grateful to all those that kindly donated.”
The success of this year’s Carnival can only bode well for future carnivals, which have long been a centrepiece in Frome’s busy social calendar.
June said, “It really does take all year round to raise funds to put the Carnival on. We always need more volunteers and funding in advance of the event so that we can be sure of covering the costs of putting on the Carnival.
“A big highlight for me was seeing Frome Fire Brigade become the first group to win the Roy Barnes Cup, set up in honour of my late husband. So that was great!”
“The Carnival royalty were also fantastic and really helped in gathering donations, they did a marvellous job. Thanks to the dedicated committee who work hard all year round to make the event a success and to everyone who helped make the event such a success. We are always looking for more volunteers to help with putting the Carnival on each year.”
If you would like to join the Carnival committee contact June on 01373 461625.
