Belinda Bennett provides a round-up of South West illuminated carnivals
IN perfect weather conditions, it didn’t seem a hassle at all to be kept waiting for the start of Exmouth Carnival.
In fact, compared to Chard Carnival, held on the same night, 20 minutes late was nothing!
Many entries at Chard didn’t move off until 9pm and, eventually, the procession was abandoned. A problem with overhead cables has been blamed.
It was a different story in Exmouth where even Tango JCC made it to the ball – after initially breaking down en-route.
Eager club members were determined to take part in the procession, vowing to walk - if necessary.
In the end, they got a ride; their float arriving in time to be slipped into the moving line-up.
Exmouth boasted a fantastic number of local entries.
Brixington Ladies shone again – this time as Santa’s Harem. The plucky women took a first prize last year with Mature Majorettes.
The King and Queen of Salterton Road Recycling Centre, Tim Mann and Michelle Ferris, were the centrepiece of a quite stunning entry by Exmouth Transition Town.
Other notable local entries were fielded by Exmouth in Bloom, Exmouth Sea Cadets and a host of other youth organisations.
Steam engines from The World of Country Life lead the procession, behind the traditional fire engine.
Royalty from Topsham Town Fayre filled the vacancy in Exmouth.
The carnival attracted entries from as far afield as Dawlish, South Brent and Lyme Regis.
Majorette troupes included Dartline, Somerset Red Arrows, Seaton Fire and Ice, Diamond Cheer Squad and Lyme Regis.
First major float over the start line was award-winning comedy classic Nutters Clean Up, fielded by Nunsford Nutters CC, of Colyton.
Last to wow the crowds was the multi award winning Rollin On The River by Sidvale CC, with Jamie Baker driving the tractor.
Exmouth Carnival attracted fantastic crowds and fostered a real family atmosphere.
In positively balmy weather for October, the event rounded off yet another milestone in this year’s illuminated season.
Organiser Rob Waller deserves praise for ensuring another great night – and for the second year running ensured results were published before 11am the following day.