Belinda Bennett provides a round-up of South West illuminated carnivals
You can now see the highlights of Honiton Carnival on the Midweek Herald website!
CLICK HERE
"DON'T speak to me like that!" The response I got when I told a group of around 12 street peddlers to move to the side of the road at Honiton and District Carnival. The peddlers were directly in front of Honiton's two fire engines, encouraging children into the middle of the road as the carnival procession approached. What if a fire engine had to race off to an emergency? I counted a total of almost 20 of these peddlers in Honiton last Saturday night. How many were genuine holders of a peddler's license, I don't know. What I do know is that they are the parasites of carnival and need to be regulated. They make no contribution towards the event, unlike burger vans, and, judging by the response I got from them, have no desire to carnival safe either. I don't think it's something individual carnival committees can tackle alone. It needs to be discussed at circuit level.
"DON'T speak to me like that!" The response I got when I told a group of around 12 street peddlers to move to the side of the road at Honiton and District Carnival.
The peddlers were directly in front of Honiton's two fire engines, encouraging children into the middle of the road as the carnival procession approached.
What if a fire engine had to race off to an emergency?
I counted a total of almost 20 of these peddlers in Honiton last Saturday night.
How many were genuine holders of a peddler's license, I don't know.
What I do know is that they are the parasites of carnival and need to be regulated.
They make no contribution towards the event, unlike burger vans, and, judging by the response I got from them, have no desire to carnival safe either.
I don't think it's something individual carnival committees can tackle alone. It needs to be discussed at circuit level.
Open Class - 1st Mickey's Express - Sid Vale CC 2nd Battleground - Phoenix CC 3rd Halloween - Ax,inster Young Farmers Tableau Class - 1st Camberwick Green - New Beginnings CC 2nd Ride of the Valkyries - Aysheberton Stannary CC Local Class - 1st Medieval Legend - Eclipse CC 2nd Thriller - Hillside Garage CC 3rd Dr Who - K9 CC and 1st Honiton Scouts Comedy Class - 1st Horsin Around - One Plus One CC 2nd St Trinnians - Poppe Inne CC 3rd Nymphos Probe Uranus - Nymphos CC 4th Hey Big Suspender - Nunsford Nutters CC Under 16's Class - 1st Fright Night - Rascals CC 2nd Whatever the Weather - Brimgrovers 3rd Horror Express - Tango CC 4th Wild Boyz on Tour - Seaton Explorer Scouts CC Under 30' Class - 1st Venturers Go Wild - OSMVSU CC 2nd Showbiz Sparkle - Budleigh Salterton CC 3rd Sunshine Sensation - Brimspear CC Queens Class - 1st Pretty as a Picture - Topsham Town Fayre 2nd Flower Fairies - Ottery St Mary Carnival 3rd Queen of the Ice - Dawlish Carnival 4th Samba - Seaton Carnival Trade Class - 1st Treaslake Motors 2nd Touch of Class Limousines 3rd Parnell Coaches Walking Single - 1st Masquerade Ball - Roger Muspratt Hamilton 2nd 12 Gifts of Christmas - Lyn Tutty Walking Pairs - 1st Little Chief Big Totem - Jeff & Rosa Batten 2nd Willow Pattern - Bonnie Tutty & Emma Witton 3rd Fairy Good Friends - Sisters CC Walking Groups - 1st 1,2,3 Many Clowns - Laughter Unlimited 2nd Nothing Like a Dame - Honiton Pantomime Society 3rd Beautiful Bug Ball - Busy Bee Pre-school 4th Honiton Youth Football Walking Motor Props - 1st Boogie Bass Bugs - Boogie Bass Bugs 2nd Mamma Mia - Honiton Round Table 3rd Honiton Young Farmers 4th Benny's Bangors - P J Greenslade Walking non-motor props - 1st Pinball Whizz - A & A CC 2nd Space - Tic Toc CC 3rd Jungle Safari - Cooke Family CC 4th Pirates Ahoy - Mr P Armour Best Overall - Mickey's ExpressMost Original Walking - Boogie Bass BugsBest Dressed Tractor Driver - BattlegroundBest Lighting - Medieval LegendBest Costume - Pinball WhizzBest Make up - Whatever the WeatherBest Choreography - Fright NightBest Music - HalloweenMost Colourful - Pinball WhizzRoyalty Choice - Medieval Legend
I'VE always considered it a perk of my job (being the editor) to be able to suppress any unflattering images of myself from publication.
I was in my element when I first spotted THAT photo of me looking like Ena Sharples, following last year's Honiton Christmas Carnival.
"It will never see the light of day," I chuckled to myself as I buried it deep in the Herald's archives.
I'm not chuckling now! When the Herald was delivered, hot off the press to a town council meeting last week, my heart missed a beat. There, on page 24, was THAT awful picture.
You'd think, being the editor, I would have seen it before the paper was printed. Nope! Adverts appear as blank squares when I put pictures and stories in the spaces between them. They are added later, by my namesake Belinda Dickens.
Wait till I get my hands on her!
YOUR Midweek Herald caught up with Phoenix CC at Taunton Carnival last night.
A video of this year's entry, Battleground, will go on-line as soon as possible - before Wednesday.
Pictures of club members and the feature float appear in the eight-page preview for Honiton and District Carnival, being published in the Herald on Wednesday.
Don't miss this week's Midweek Herald. It will feature an eight-page preview of next Saturday's procession.
Boogie Bass Bugs, Honiton Scouts/K9 CC, Sidvale CC, Phoenix CC, Nymphos CC, Nunsford Nutters CC, Honiton Twirlstars and Hillside Garage are all featured.
It's the full monty!
Harlequin took another round of top honours with Festival of the Lion King.
Nunsford Nutters, Tango JCC, Sidvale CC and Phoenix CC were among those to journey from East Devon to Somerset to take part in the event.
Click our link to South West Carnivals' website for full results.
ONE of East Devon's biggest carnival clubs has finally unveiled its 2008 theme. Phoenix CC, of Broadclyst, made the start line in Chard last Saturday. Members launched Battleground. The feature float depicts a fantasy space theme about a returning triumphant army. Nick Worden came up with the theme and the cart was built by club members, with a small amount of help from non-members. The entry boasts 28 moving parts and "many flashing lights". Costumes have been made by Lill Smith. "This year we have a nearly new tractor and have converted it to a low down, front driving position," said Mr Worden. "The cart has been completely rebuilt and so has the genny trailer." Phoenix members are aged from 12 to 65. Mr Worden would like to wish all carnival competitors good luck for the season. He added: "We have had one of the most enjoyable years in carnival." Your Midweek Herald aims to catch up with Phoenix CC at Taunton Carnival on Saturday. The aim is to produce a video of Battleground. Visit our website for all the latest carnival news.
ONE of East Devon's biggest carnival clubs has finally unveiled its 2008 theme.
Phoenix CC, of Broadclyst, made the start line in Chard last Saturday.
Members launched Battleground.
The feature float depicts a fantasy space theme about a returning triumphant army.
Nick Worden came up with the theme and the cart was built by club members, with a small amount of help from non-members. The entry boasts 28 moving parts and "many flashing lights".
Costumes have been made by Lill Smith.
"This year we have a nearly new tractor and have converted it to a low down, front driving position," said Mr Worden.
"The cart has been completely rebuilt and so has the genny trailer."
Phoenix members are aged from 12 to 65.
Mr Worden would like to wish all carnival competitors good luck for the season.
He added: "We have had one of the most enjoyable years in carnival."
Your Midweek Herald aims to catch up with Phoenix CC at Taunton Carnival on Saturday.
The aim is to produce a video of Battleground.
Visit our website for all the latest carnival news.
THE countdown to Honiton and District Carnival starts on Sunday (October 19) with two events at Honiton Motel. A car treasure hunt will start from the venue. For a preferred time contact Max Pipe on (01404) 850855. On the same day, at 2pm, the carnival's annual whist drive will be held. The Britannia Building Society, at 131 High Street, will host the next event on Tuesday, October 21 - a bring an buy sale. The event will be open from 9.30am, but anybody wishing to donate books and bric-a-brac is asked to deliver them the day before. Half the proceeds of the sale will benefit the carnival. The Mackarness Hall will be the venue of the carnival's annual bingo, taking place on Wednesday, October 22. Doors open at 7pm. A skittles competition will take place at the Royal British Legion Club, in Dowell Street, from 8pm on Thursday, October 23. It will cost 50p for three balls and anyone scoring nine or over will qualify for the final, being held on the same night. Space Hoppers will be the theme of a race night, also taking place at the Royal British Legion Club, from 8pm on Friday, October 24. See next week's Herald for a full preview (eight pages, probably) of this year's grand procession, taking place on Saturday, October 25.
THE countdown to Honiton and District Carnival starts on Sunday (October 19) with two events at Honiton Motel.
A car treasure hunt will start from the venue. For a preferred time contact Max Pipe on (01404) 850855. On the same day, at 2pm, the carnival's annual whist drive will be held.
The Britannia Building Society, at 131 High Street, will host the next event on Tuesday, October 21 - a bring an buy sale. The event will be open from 9.30am, but anybody wishing to donate books and bric-a-brac is asked to deliver them the day before. Half the proceeds of the sale will benefit the carnival.
The Mackarness Hall will be the venue of the carnival's annual bingo, taking place on Wednesday, October 22. Doors open at 7pm.
A skittles competition will take place at the Royal British Legion Club, in Dowell Street, from 8pm on Thursday, October 23. It will cost 50p for three balls and anyone scoring nine or over will qualify for the final, being held on the same night.
Space Hoppers will be the theme of a race night, also taking place at the Royal British Legion Club, from 8pm on Friday, October 24.
See next week's Herald for a full preview (eight pages, probably) of this year's grand procession, taking place on Saturday, October 25.
The video is now available to view. Check out the video list on Carnival Capers' front page.
Message from Colin Comber I would like to thank all the people who have sponsored us, in particular our main sponsor the seaton tramway, and to thank in particular Lee Taylor and John Jeffries, who helped in their own time with technical and other support. We would like to thank Phoenix Carnival Club for their advice, help and support and Sidvale for their support. I would like to explain that it may not be so polished as some, but it has been done as a Duke of Edinburgh project and the fund raising and building and manning has all been done by 14 - 18 year olds. Our results are 1) Seaton, Best Seaton entry & 1st Local Youth Class, 2) Sidmouth, 2nd Youth Class, 3) Colyton, 2nd Youth Class, 4) Axminster ,2nd Youth Class, 5) Newton Poppleford, 3rd Youth Class, 6) Ilminster, No Prize, 7) Chard, Best Non-federation Youth entry and Best Non-Federation in Carnival Also, thank some of the older Explorers Jamie and Andy and especially to Duncan Parris for the loan of his tractor throughout our season and Colin Pady. Also to the others who have also loaned us their tractor to pull the generator trailor. I will apologise for anyone I have missed.
Message from Colin Comber
I would like to thank all the people who have sponsored us, in particular our main sponsor the seaton tramway, and to thank in particular Lee Taylor and John Jeffries, who helped in their own time with technical and other support.
We would like to thank Phoenix Carnival Club for their advice, help and support and Sidvale for their support.
I would like to explain that it may not be so polished as some, but it has been done as a Duke of Edinburgh project and the fund raising and building and manning has all been done by 14 - 18 year olds.
Our results are 1) Seaton, Best Seaton entry & 1st Local Youth Class, 2) Sidmouth, 2nd Youth Class, 3) Colyton, 2nd Youth Class, 4) Axminster ,2nd Youth Class, 5) Newton Poppleford, 3rd Youth Class, 6) Ilminster, No Prize, 7) Chard, Best Non-federation Youth entry and Best Non-Federation in Carnival Also, thank some of the older Explorers Jamie and Andy and especially to Duncan Parris for the loan of his tractor throughout our season and Colin Pady. Also to the others who have also loaned us their tractor to pull the generator trailor. I will apologise for anyone I have missed.
IT'S Taunton Carnival on Saturday (October 18).
SPECTATORS at Chard Carnival have submitted pictures of last Saturday's procession. We'll get them on-line as soon as possible.
Thank you, especially, to Clive Bosence.
Carnival Capers wishes to clarify results in the comic class at Exmouth Carnival.
Nunsford Nutters CC came 1st, with Nymphos CC coming 2nd.
THE video will be on-line as soon as possible - keep checking.
THE heat was on, literally, in Exmouth last night. The temperature was positively balmy - to the extent that it was uncomfortably hot for the likes of my colleague Dave Somerton-Rees, who completed the route in a chicken outfit! His sweat allegedly turned to steam when he peeled the fluffy costume away from his wet skin at the finish line! Dave took part in the carnival to raise cash for The Meningitis Trust. His elder son survived meningitis 18 months ago. There was no need for carnival organiser Rob Waller to get hot under the collar. He achieved his goal of attracting the highest turnout of local entries so far this season. Well done, Rob! For me, Exmouth Carnival was probably the best I've attended this year. As well as a plethora of colourful walking contenders, entries from charities and a large entourage of town criers (carried around the route in carriages supplied by World of Country Life), Mr Waller clocked in 37 floats. "There's been a brilliant turnout - on a par with last year," he told me. "Topsham Royalty are always our guests, because we haven't got a carnival royalty of our own in Exmouth." Topsham's carnival entry, Pretty As A Picture, took first prize in its class - winning back a trophy it had been parted with for just moments. Mr Waller has jokingly told Topsham Carnival Committee to give it a polish next year! Brixington Ladies shone, as ever, in the walking groups class - as Mature Majorettes. Mature? Really? They could prance about with teenagers and still look young! Of course, Brixington Ladies have been part of Exmouth Carnival for 30 years, in earlier days entering a float. Magnolia WI entered a clown-themed float, with members and supporters clowning around alongside. Their costumes were stunning. Budleigh Salterton brought Hollywood to Exmouth, with Showbiz Sparkle. A convincing Marilyn Monroe wore THAT dress - and, just as Marilyn's legend has it, the white halter-neck creation fluttered around the hemline. 'Anyone Seen The Doctor?' was the title of a brilliant walking entry from Ryan Voysey, aged five. Ryan, of Topsham, toured the route complete with a robotic dog and Dr Who's tardis - both lit up. Paignton Silhouettes and Wessex International Majorettes, of Bournemouth, were among the troupes to enter the majorettes' class. I was pleased to see that Lindi Polkey survived her 40th birthday celebrations and ensuing car boot sale to lead Honiton Twirlstars around the route! Lyme Regis Majorettes were forced to pull out of the procession at the start line, when their music system failed. Honiton and District Carnival Committee's royal float, Venetian Dream, took a second prize in its class. All the 'greats' were in the line-up - Sidvale CC, with the awe-inspiring Mickey's Express, Nymphos CC, with Nymphos Probe Uranus, and Ayshburton Stannery, with a wicked Viking-themed tableau. All three were returning to carnival after a break in the circuit. Also impressing spectators this year are Axminster Young Farmers' Club, with Halloween, and Hillside Garage, with Thriller. Axminster YFC has surpassed expectations for a local club. Halloween is good enough to compete with the very best. Well done! Hillside Garage has entered another league. Although the gravestones didn't go down brilliantly with circuit officials at Seaton, the build and the costumes are, in my opinion, the best the club has fielded. It's a professional entry and the performances on the float have improved with every carnival. For Tango JCC, Eclipse CC and Nunsford Nutters CC it was a case of business as usual - they appeared in Exmouth fresh from appearances at Ilminster Carnival, the second outing on the South Somerset circuit. I think Eclipse could go on to be one of East Devon's biggest clubs - if it continues to improve at its current pace. I spotted just two clubs missing from the line-up in Exmouth - and they were both in Chard! A&A CC and Seaton Explorer Scouts. Phoenix CC, of Broadclyst, also made it to the start line in South Somerset after a number of setbacks. Karizma Majorettes, of Axminster, were also in Chard. My son, who drives a tractor to carnivals (not in the carnivals) for Seaton Explorer Scouts, said there was a big crowd turnout. The same can be said for Exmouth. If only I had Dr Who's tardis - I could have been in two places at once! Colyton enjoys a unique position, the town entering the two foremost comic entries not just on the East Devon circuit but probably much further a field as well. The Nutters never seem to run out of energy - the woman holding the drinks tray in particular, along with the now infamous carnival cross-dressers. Nymphos, on the other hand, are ultra unique. I can never quite get a clear picture of the US prison-style boiler suits, because of a smoke effect. But this year's theme, although cheeky, is not offensive and probably one of the best of its genre spectators will ever see - before regulations finally kill off illuminated carnivals once and for all. We are in the eleventh hour, I fear. I also think the Nymphos' float build is especially good. In terms of technicality, it's probably up there with the South West's top feature floats. I think Exmouth Carnival was the best I've witnessed in 2008. All eyes are now on Honiton. I'm chief marshal at that event - so I'm looking to colleagues to provide video coverage. I'm also looking for marshals, incidentally!!! Exmouth was just great. A full picture spread will appear in this week's Exmouth Journal, a sister paper of your Midweek Herald. The pictures will, of course, be posted on Carnival Capers as well.
THE heat was on, literally, in Exmouth last night. The temperature was positively balmy - to the extent that it was uncomfortably hot for the likes of my colleague Dave Somerton-Rees, who completed the route in a chicken outfit!
His sweat allegedly turned to steam when he peeled the fluffy costume away from his wet skin at the finish line! Dave took part in the carnival to raise cash for The Meningitis Trust. His elder son survived meningitis 18 months ago.
There was no need for carnival organiser Rob Waller to get hot under the collar. He achieved his goal of attracting the highest turnout of local entries so far this season.
Well done, Rob!
For me, Exmouth Carnival was probably the best I've attended this year.
As well as a plethora of colourful walking contenders, entries from charities and a large entourage of town criers (carried around the route in carriages supplied by World of Country Life), Mr Waller clocked in 37 floats.
"There's been a brilliant turnout - on a par with last year," he told me.
"Topsham Royalty are always our guests, because we haven't got a carnival royalty of our own in Exmouth."
Topsham's carnival entry, Pretty As A Picture, took first prize in its class - winning back a trophy it had been parted with for just moments.
Mr Waller has jokingly told Topsham Carnival Committee to give it a polish next year!
Brixington Ladies shone, as ever, in the walking groups class - as Mature Majorettes. Mature? Really? They could prance about with teenagers and still look young!
Of course, Brixington Ladies have been part of Exmouth Carnival for 30 years, in earlier days entering a float.
Magnolia WI entered a clown-themed float, with members and supporters clowning around alongside. Their costumes were stunning.
Budleigh Salterton brought Hollywood to Exmouth, with Showbiz Sparkle. A convincing Marilyn Monroe wore THAT dress - and, just as Marilyn's legend has it, the white halter-neck creation fluttered around the hemline.
'Anyone Seen The Doctor?' was the title of a brilliant walking entry from Ryan Voysey, aged five. Ryan, of Topsham, toured the route complete with a robotic dog and Dr Who's tardis - both lit up.
Paignton Silhouettes and Wessex International Majorettes, of Bournemouth, were among the troupes to enter the majorettes' class.
I was pleased to see that Lindi Polkey survived her 40th birthday celebrations and ensuing car boot sale to lead Honiton Twirlstars around the route!
Lyme Regis Majorettes were forced to pull out of the procession at the start line, when their music system failed.
Honiton and District Carnival Committee's royal float, Venetian Dream, took a second prize in its class.
All the 'greats' were in the line-up - Sidvale CC, with the awe-inspiring Mickey's Express, Nymphos CC, with Nymphos Probe Uranus, and Ayshburton Stannery, with a wicked Viking-themed tableau.
All three were returning to carnival after a break in the circuit.
Also impressing spectators this year are Axminster Young Farmers' Club, with Halloween, and Hillside Garage, with Thriller.
Axminster YFC has surpassed expectations for a local club. Halloween is good enough to compete with the very best. Well done!
Hillside Garage has entered another league. Although the gravestones didn't go down brilliantly with circuit officials at Seaton, the build and the costumes are, in my opinion, the best the club has fielded. It's a professional entry and the performances on the float have improved with every carnival.
For Tango JCC, Eclipse CC and Nunsford Nutters CC it was a case of business as usual - they appeared in Exmouth fresh from appearances at Ilminster Carnival, the second outing on the South Somerset circuit. I think Eclipse could go on to be one of East Devon's biggest clubs - if it continues to improve at its current pace.
I spotted just two clubs missing from the line-up in Exmouth - and they were both in Chard! A&A CC and Seaton Explorer Scouts. Phoenix CC, of Broadclyst, also made it to the start line in South Somerset after a number of setbacks.
Karizma Majorettes, of Axminster, were also in Chard.
My son, who drives a tractor to carnivals (not in the carnivals) for Seaton Explorer Scouts, said there was a big crowd turnout.
The same can be said for Exmouth. If only I had Dr Who's tardis - I could have been in two places at once!
Colyton enjoys a unique position, the town entering the two foremost comic entries not just on the East Devon circuit but probably much further a field as well.
The Nutters never seem to run out of energy - the woman holding the drinks tray in particular, along with the now infamous carnival cross-dressers.
Nymphos, on the other hand, are ultra unique. I can never quite get a clear picture of the US prison-style boiler suits, because of a smoke effect. But this year's theme, although cheeky, is not offensive and probably one of the best of its genre spectators will ever see - before regulations finally kill off illuminated carnivals once and for all. We are in the eleventh hour, I fear. I also think the Nymphos' float build is especially good. In terms of technicality, it's probably up there with the South West's top feature floats.
I think Exmouth Carnival was the best I've witnessed in 2008.
All eyes are now on Honiton. I'm chief marshal at that event - so I'm looking to colleagues to provide video coverage. I'm also looking for marshals, incidentally!!!
Exmouth was just great. A full picture spread will appear in this week's Exmouth Journal, a sister paper of your Midweek Herald. The pictures will, of course, be posted on Carnival Capers as well.
Exmouth Carnival Winners - corrected version!Best Overall - Sid Vale, Mickys ExpressClass D1 Royals1st Topsham, Pretty as a picture 2nd Honiton, Venition Dreams, 3rd Totnes, From Russia with Love, 4th Harbentonford, Good Ship LollypopClass D2 Royals1st Ottery S.M. Flower Fairies 2nd Bovey Tracey, Nava Hoe 3rd Dawlish, Queen of the IceQueen of Queens - Dawlish, Queen of the IceClass A - Open1st Sid Vale, Michys Express 2nd Ashburton, Ride of the ValkyriesClass B Feature1st Eclipse CC, Medievil Legend 2nd Axminster YF, HalloweenClass C Comic2nd Nymphos CC, Nymphos Probe Uranus 1st Nunsford Nutters, Hey Big Suspender 3rd Sis/Otter YF, Wild WestClass E Youth1st Tango JCC,Spooky Express 2nd South Brent, Boogie BellsClass F Under 25ft1st DSO Ottery, Venturea go Wild 2nd Budleigh Salt, Showbiz Sparkle 3rd Hillside, Thriller 4th Dr WhoClass G Trade1st Country Life, King of the Belgiums 2nd Private, Stretch LimoClass H Local1st Exmouth AFC, Jungle Master 2nd Magnolia WI, Clowning around 3rd Lions, Santa SleighClass J Youth Org1st Centre StageWALKINGClass K - 1st 12 Gifts of Xmas 2nd Firework FantasyClass L - 1st Thomas and FriendsClass M - 1st Mature MajorettesClass N - 1st Willow Pattern 2nd Butterfly Princess 3rd Anyone seen the DoctorClass P - 1st Little Bif Chieif Totem 2nd The Trashy KidsClass R - 1st 123 Many clowns not enough Circus 2nd Prison Fairies 3rd The Nerd SquadClass T - 1st E-2-E 2nd Blooming SummerClass S - 1st Jungle SafariClass X - 1st Boogie Bass Bugs 2nd Blue Bells in Force
PHOENIX CC has entered the 2008 carnival arena with a robot theme. The entry appeared in Chard, while I was in Exmouth.I will bring you more news - as soon as I have spoken to the club.
IT was brought to my attention in Exmouth last night that police in North Somerset are now insisting that only qualified security guards provide marshalling cover in Weston-super-Mare.If this is true, and the start of a trend, it really is the end for illuminated carnivals.
What carnival committee can afford such an expense?
Please click the link to South West Carnivals website on Carnival Capers' front page (lower right hand side).Big crowds and, at last, an appearance from Phoenix CC!
CARNIVAL Capers will be in Exmouth tomorrow night (October 11) for the next procession on the East Devon circuit.
I'll be trawling the line-up for snippets of news from around 5.30pm.
Exmouth Carnival will be filmed and the video will go 'live' on Carnival Capers probably on Monday morning.
Rob Waller, carnival organiser, has promised to improve his results service this year. Hopefully, I'll have them on-line on Sunday.
Fingers crossed!!!
HONITON and District Carnival Committee are holding a tabletop sale in the Mackarness Hall tomorrow (October 11).
Refreshments will be available during the morning event.
Also on sale will be copies of this year's carnival programme.
IT is with great disappointment that I have to report the possible theft of a communications radio worth £300. The state-of-the-art radio, issued at Wellington Carnival, was signed out but not returned. Yeovil District Marshals and I are distraught that an independent individual, with no connection to Honiton, Yeovil or Wellington Carnival Committee, may be to blame. Luckily, I videoed a suspect with the radio and the Herald's web editor, Sally Fairbrother, has kindly burnt off a copy of my original, unedited film for Wellington Carnival Committee to show police. When I tried to speak to Wellington Police, as the individual's team leader on the night, a control room worker refused to put me through to the station, saying staff would be unable to help - even though I pointed out officers covering the carnival seemed to know the individual by name. It may be an innocent mistake but, in the meantime, Wellington Carnival Committee faces an unexpected, large bill.
IT is with great disappointment that I have to report the possible theft of a communications radio worth £300.
The state-of-the-art radio, issued at Wellington Carnival, was signed out but not returned.
Yeovil District Marshals and I are distraught that an independent individual, with no connection to Honiton, Yeovil or Wellington Carnival Committee, may be to blame.
Luckily, I videoed a suspect with the radio and the Herald's web editor, Sally Fairbrother, has kindly burnt off a copy of my original, unedited film for Wellington Carnival Committee to show police.
When I tried to speak to Wellington Police, as the individual's team leader on the night, a control room worker refused to put me through to the station, saying staff would be unable to help - even though I pointed out officers covering the carnival seemed to know the individual by name.
It may be an innocent mistake but, in the meantime, Wellington Carnival Committee faces an unexpected, large bill.
THE funfair, which aimed to complement Ilminster Carnival, in my view, went one better than the procession. It offered a stunning array of new rides, ones I'd never seen before and could never have imagined in my wildest dreams. From the awe-inspiring Shuttle to the Speedway and big dipper, which looked like an illuminated Willow Man from certain angles, it was a treasure. The carnival was a slight disappointment, but the fair was as awe inspiring as Harlequin's Festival of the Lion King. Ilminster's fair made a change from East Devon's boring mix of the Waltzers and Twister, but my daughter wouldn't agree - she's a Waltzer devotee. I love the Twister, but only when 'Dancing In The City' is played at full blast. Perhaps Anderton and Rowland could oblige at Honiton? I'll be first in the queue!
THE funfair, which aimed to complement Ilminster Carnival, in my view, went one better than the procession.
It offered a stunning array of new rides, ones I'd never seen before and could never have imagined in my wildest dreams.
From the awe-inspiring Shuttle to the Speedway and big dipper, which looked like an illuminated Willow Man from certain angles, it was a treasure.
The carnival was a slight disappointment, but the fair was as awe inspiring as Harlequin's Festival of the Lion King.
Ilminster's fair made a change from East Devon's boring mix of the Waltzers and Twister, but my daughter wouldn't agree - she's a Waltzer devotee.
I love the Twister, but only when 'Dancing In The City' is played at full blast. Perhaps Anderton and Rowland could oblige at Honiton? I'll be first in the queue!
SORRY, but I've got some moans and groans - East Devon circuit. Results are the be-all and end-all of carnival for participants and, so far this season, getting the results has been like getting blood out of a stone. Carnival committees, take a leaf out of Karen Wilson's book. She's the secretary of Honiton & District Carnival and ensures results are emailed to the local press before the end of Sunday (the day after the night before). This type of service is essential. Carnival committees need to appoint a specific person to this role. What is a carnival without results? Reading results over the phone to newspapers on deadline, losing the results or making no arrangements whatsoever is an insult to the clubs and individuals who work hard all year to make carnival what it is. We all owe them a better service. Also, please, please, please, if you've got a carnival queen make sure she is on parade - not wheeled out at the last moment. She and her royal party are the figureheads of your processions and they need proper press attention. Interviews and pictures before or, at the very least, at the start of events are essential. We need to develop the role of Carnival Queens to promote future entries and support from young people.
SORRY, but I've got some moans and groans - East Devon circuit.
Results are the be-all and end-all of carnival for participants and, so far this season, getting the results has been like getting blood out of a stone.
Carnival committees, take a leaf out of Karen Wilson's book. She's the secretary of Honiton & District Carnival and ensures results are emailed to the local press before the end of Sunday (the day after the night before).
This type of service is essential. Carnival committees need to appoint a specific person to this role.
What is a carnival without results? Reading results over the phone to newspapers on deadline, losing the results or making no arrangements whatsoever is an insult to the clubs and individuals who work hard all year to make carnival what it is. We all owe them a better service.
Also, please, please, please, if you've got a carnival queen make sure she is on parade - not wheeled out at the last moment. She and her royal party are the figureheads of your processions and they need proper press attention.
Interviews and pictures before or, at the very least, at the start of events are essential.
We need to develop the role of Carnival Queens to promote future entries and support from young people.
A full, picture round-up of most entries at Ilminster will appear on this website between now and Wednesday morning.
Watch this space!
THE next carnival on the East Devon circuit takes place on Saturday (October 11) in Exmouth. The event clashes with Chard, where Seaton Explorer Scouts are expected to appear. Your Herald will be in Exmouth, providing reporting cover for sister newspaper The Exmouth Journal. Organiser Rob Waller has told the Herald he is expecting Exmouth to host the carnival with the biggest number of local entries in East Devon.
MOST IMPROVED: Eclipse CC, which rose from the ashes of Awliscombe-based High Spirits, is among the most improved clubs of 2008. The build of the club's 2008 entry is not only 'clean', but bright and professional.
Click the link to South West Carnivals website on this page.
CARNIVAL clubs from East Devon prevented one of the traditional highlights on the South Somerset carnival circuit from experiencing one of its poorest ever float turnouts. Four floats from East Devon made last Saturday's line-up at Ilminster, but carnival-goers are still waiting to see this year's debut from Broadclyst-based Phoenix CC. All eyes had been on Ilminster after Phoenix, which has strong support from Honiton and across East Devon, failed to make the start-line at Wellington the weekend before. While the bulk of East Devon entries made the most of a break on their circuit, Seaton Explorer Scouts, Nunsford Nutters CC, Eclipse CC and Tango JCC journeyed across the border. Also supporting the second carnival on the South Somerset calendar was walking wheeled club A&A, of Kilmington, and Lyme Regis Majorettes. For A&A CC Ilminster was an event not to be missed. Members of A&A, including Nigel Phillips, are also members of Ilminster-based Harlequin CC, on the road this year with Festival of the Lion King, one of the most spectacular feature floats carnival-goers will see before the start of the Guy Fawkes circuit. Mr Phillips made some of the animal models on the float. He traditionally joins Harlequin, as a performer, at North Petherton after taking his walking entry to Bridgwater. Unfortunately, Harlequin will not be appearing at any carnival in East Devon. A tree-lined section of the route from Ilminster to Honiton has damaged the club's float in years gone by. If you want to see why Festival of the Lion King is likely to go down as one of carnival's 'greats', don't miss Taunton Carnival, taking place during a second break on the East Devon circuit, on Saturday, October 18. Poor weather, including a strengthening wind, failed to put off spectators in Ilminster. The town is historically, from the days of the late, great Aldonvale and Springfield clubs, been one of the biggest breeding grounds of top class entries in the world of illuminated carnivals. The town now boasts a forerunner in the walking groups class, in the shape of Xtreme CC. Boogie Bass Bugs, of Honiton, could one day be East Devon's equivalent. THE next carnival on the East Devon circuit takes place on Saturday (October 11) in Exmouth. The event clashes with Chard, where Seaton Explorer Scouts are expected to appear. Your Herald will be in Exmouth, providing reporting cover for sister newspaper The Exmouth Journal. Organiser Rob Waller has told the Herald he is expecting Exmouth to host the carnival with the biggest number of local entries in East Devon.
CARNIVAL clubs from East Devon prevented one of the traditional highlights on the South Somerset carnival circuit from experiencing one of its poorest ever float turnouts.
Four floats from East Devon made last Saturday's line-up at Ilminster, but carnival-goers are still waiting to see this year's debut from Broadclyst-based Phoenix CC.
All eyes had been on Ilminster after Phoenix, which has strong support from Honiton and across East Devon, failed to make the start-line at Wellington the weekend before.
While the bulk of East Devon entries made the most of a break on their circuit, Seaton Explorer Scouts, Nunsford Nutters CC, Eclipse CC and Tango JCC journeyed across the border.
Also supporting the second carnival on the South Somerset calendar was walking wheeled club A&A, of Kilmington, and Lyme Regis Majorettes.
For A&A CC Ilminster was an event not to be missed. Members of A&A, including Nigel Phillips, are also members of Ilminster-based Harlequin CC, on the road this year with Festival of the Lion King, one of the most spectacular feature floats carnival-goers will see before the start of the Guy Fawkes circuit.
Mr Phillips made some of the animal models on the float. He traditionally joins Harlequin, as a performer, at North Petherton after taking his walking entry to Bridgwater.
Unfortunately, Harlequin will not be appearing at any carnival in East Devon. A tree-lined section of the route from Ilminster to Honiton has damaged the club's float in years gone by.
If you want to see why Festival of the Lion King is likely to go down as one of carnival's 'greats', don't miss Taunton Carnival, taking place during a second break on the East Devon circuit, on Saturday, October 18.
Poor weather, including a strengthening wind, failed to put off spectators in Ilminster. The town is historically, from the days of the late, great Aldonvale and Springfield clubs, been one of the biggest breeding grounds of top class entries in the world of illuminated carnivals.
The town now boasts a forerunner in the walking groups class, in the shape of Xtreme CC. Boogie Bass Bugs, of Honiton, could one day be East Devon's equivalent.
FOLLOWING on from a well-received Christmas-themed float, which made an appearance in Honiton last year, Brimgrovers JCC, of Shepton Beauchamp, near Ilminster, has notched up a gear with Whatever the Weather. I think this year's entry, which caused an unintentional hold-up at Ilminster last weekend, is among the most improved from established clubs. Brimgrovers' 2007 offering appears in this year's full colour, glossy programme for Honiton & District Carnival.
FOLLOWING on from a well-received Christmas-themed float, which made an appearance in Honiton last year, Brimgrovers JCC, of Shepton Beauchamp, near Ilminster, has notched up a gear with Whatever the Weather.
I think this year's entry, which caused an unintentional hold-up at Ilminster last weekend, is among the most improved from established clubs.
Brimgrovers' 2007 offering appears in this year's full colour, glossy programme for Honiton & District Carnival.
DOMINO CC, of Chard, is back on the road with a float after taking time out to invest in barn accommodation. The club, which has enjoyed an illustrious history, appeared last year at Honiton in the walking groups class. Your Herald can reveal Domino intends to support Honiton and District Carnival again this year. Look out for a float with lots of hearts!
DOMINO CC, of Chard, is back on the road with a float after taking time out to invest in barn accommodation.
The club, which has enjoyed an illustrious history, appeared last year at Honiton in the walking groups class.
Your Herald can reveal Domino intends to support Honiton and District Carnival again this year.
Look out for a float with lots of hearts!
WESTON Carnival organisers are appealing for the public to donate more money at this year's event. Spectators only handed over £11,000 to the charity collection floats and bucket holders at last year's glittering procession. The total was down from £14,000 in 2006 and around half the amount the festival raised at the beginning of the decade. Weston November Carnival Committee member Brian Coombes said: "We hope people will dig deep into their pockets because last year's total was disappointing. "A lot of charities benefit from the donations so it would be nice if we could improve on the total. "Seven or eight years ago we were raising more than £20,000, but the donations have dropped off." Among the charities to benefit from carnival donations are the Weston Group of Friends, Avalon Round Table, the RNLI and Avon Fire and Rescue Service. The money, which was previously counted at the Grand Pier, will be totalled at a different venue this year. The pier's change-counting machines perished in the fire, which left carnival organisers without a venue to add up the donations. However, after an appeal was made to local businesses, Olympia Arcade came forward and will be allowing their machines to be used this year. Arcade manager Cary Wilkins said: "The carnival is a great tradition in the town and it's a pleasure to help in any way we can. "We're just happy we could step in to help out such a great event. "The whole of Weston benefits from the night and we didn't hesitate to pledge our support." Brian said hopes were high for this year's event. He added: "We're all really looking forward to the event and can't wait to get going." Entry forms are currently being sent to all the regular clubs, but anybody who wants to enter the carnival for the first time should call Brian on 01934 428550.