Sidmouth carnival groups dance for joy after cash boost

DANCERS from Sidmouth Conservative Club have donated �350 to Sidmouth Carnival Committee and the same to Sid Vale Carnival Club.

DANCERS from Sidmouth Conservative Club have donated �350 to Sidmouth Carnival Committee and the same to Sid Vale Carnival Club.

John and Sonia Davies, who hold dance tuition on Wednesday evenings, donate all the money given by dancers for the lessons in ballroom and sequence dancing, to local charities.

This week, after one of the dancers suggested helping to secure this year's carnival procession, it was decided to split the money to both carnival groups.

The carnival not only brings people into Sidmouth, helping boost local trade, but also raises money for local charities.

Sally Jackson, vice-chairman of the carnival committee, together with secretary Amy Baker, received the �350, which will, along with other donations, go towards paying for road closures, policing, public music licensing and insurances, estimated to cost around �6,000.

Jan and Nick Beavis from Sid Vale Carnival Club, received �350 to help the club build a themed carnival float to parade in carnivals around Devon and Somerset.

All donations go towards raising the �12,000 needed for construction materials, electrics, sound system, generators and costumes.

The dancers, who wished both groups success in their carnivals, said without the support of both groups, who put so much of their time and effort, Sidmouth would not have a carnival.

If you are able to make a donation to help the Sidmouth Carnival get off the ground this year you can make cheques payable to either the 'Carnival Committee' The Treasurer, 86 Pound Close, Chapel Street, Sidbury, EX10 0RQ or Sid Vale Carnival Club', The Secretary, 'Barimar', Church Street, Sidford, EX10 9RL.