Schoolgirl set to take to Honiton’s pool this weekend to support traditions she loves

A carnival princess-in-waiting is hoping to make a big splash for her home-town’s major traditions - by swimming more than 100 lengths in an hour.

Millie Gething, 10, who is a huge fan of the annual procession and the Tar Barrels, wants to raise money to help keep both events running.

She is taking part in a sponsored swim at Honiton’s pool next Sunday, October 23, and hopes to complete each length in just 36 seconds or less.

Millie will become Ottery carnival royalty for the 2017 circuit and has taken part in the junior barrels alongside brother Ryley, eight.

She says she ‘wishes it could be November 5 every day’. Millie said of carnival night: “I like seeing all the floats and the walking groups. It’s a great atmosphere.”

The Ottery St Mary Primary School pupil has also organised a cake sale and is selling raffle tickets as part of her forthcoming role as a carnival princess.

Mum Katie said: “We’re very proud - she came up with it all on her own.

“I have lived in Ottery all my life. It’s just the way of life for those that are involved. It’s a real community thing.

“We want to go and raise as much money as we can to keep the barrels and the carnival going. It [swimming] comes naturally and it was something that she felt that she could do.

“I am sure we will have more than £500 in sponsorship.”

Sponsorship forms can be found in Sal’s Café in Mill Street, the primary school office, or by contacting the ‘Friends of Carnival and Barrel Night’ Facebook page.

Ottery Carnival takes place on Saturday, October 29, with the Tar Barrels a week later.