Belinda Bennett provides a round-up of South West illuminated carnivals
AFTER months of hard graft, carnivalites can finally show off their new themes at Seaton, the seaside town that traditionally hosts the debut carnival on the East Devon illuminated circuit.
It is an important occasion, attracting the attentions of those involved in illuminated carnival circuits elsewhere in the West Country.
All eyes will be on the mighty condenders who, year after year, pull out all the stops to put a real touch of glamour onto our streets.
Until Seaton Carnival, club themes are a tightly kept secret – meaning the night holds an air of mystery as well as expectation.
Sidvale CC wowed crowds last year with Mickey’s Express, a theme conjured up by Jamie Baker, of Honiton.
Spectators, as well as other carnival clubs, will be keen to see Sidvale’s 2009 entry unveiled at Seaton. Can the club pull off another coup?
The mighty Phoenix CC, of Broadclyst, which went on the road last year with a space theme, does not usually appear on the East Devon circuit until after Colyton Carnival.
Relative newcomers Eclipse CC made a good impression last year with Medieval Legend.
Although it was venturing out for only a second consecutive season, many of its members are notable carnivalites with many years of experience.
Young Farmers’ Clubs, carnival royalty, majorettes and walking entries all make for a spectacular show.
A highlight of this year’s walking classes is expected to be an entry from Boogie Bass Bugs, of Honiton, stepping out for the second consecutive year.
Some clubs, however, won’t be in the line-up, including floats from Hillside Garage and Seaton Explorer Scouts.
Hillside members are assisting other clubs this year.