'Wonderful sense of community' at Sidmouth Carnival

A procession of illuminated floats, accompanied by walkers in fancy dress and troupes of majorettes, made its way through the town, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators.

Among the entries were Ghostriders in the Sky by Sid Vale Carnival Club, Jack's Back by Ipplepen Carnival Club, Plucking by Nunsford Nutters Carnival Club, Frozen Ever After by Budleigh Salterton Royalty, Buffalo Creek by Rubalo Carnival Club, Outlaws at the Gold Mine by Brights Sparks Carnival Club, Spooky Choo Choo by Next Generation Carnival Club and Welcome to the 60s by Otters Carnival Club.

Nigel Phillips of A&A Carnival Club, whose entry The Dragon won Best Walking Entry, said: “We've worked on our dragon for months and are delighted to have won. We really love being part of the carnival, entertaining the onlookers and seeing the smiling faces of the children.”

Jow and Martyn French from Sidmouth watched the carnival from the Radway. Jow said: “This is a time of year when the nights are drawing in and the carnival brightens up people's lives brings a lot of enjoyment and fun.”

Olivia Miller, trainer of Lyme Regis majorettes, said: “The girls really enjoy performing and showing the crowd what they can do. They've been practising and working hard since last September and being involved with the majorettes is great for their self-esteem and confidence.”

Julia Hardy and Rachel Dent, both from Sidmouth, watched the Carnival from the Radway. Julia said: “I love the spectacle and really appreciate the effort people have put in.”  Rachel said, “There's a wonderful sense of community bringing people together on this unique occasion.”

Jean Anning from Honiton said: “It's a wonderful event for families. My two-year-old niece has loved it, especially the big floats and the dancers.”

But the carnival committee has warned that this year's event could be the last - read more here.