THIS year’s Wells City Carnival has been hailed as one of the best ever, with dazzling entries, large crowds, good weather and a sizeable sum of money collected.
Paul Toole, Media Officer for Wells City Carnival Committee, said: “As someone born and raised in Wells, I’ve had the privilege of attending the city’s carnivals for nearly 50 years. Each year has been a joy, but I have to say, this year’s carnival was truly the most spectacular I’ve ever witnessed.
“The vibrant energy, dazzling entries, and enthusiastic crowds made it a night to remember. I’m confident this year will break records – not just in audience numbers but also in the amount of money raised for carnival and charitable causes.
“On behalf of myself and the Wells City Carnival committee, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event possible. To those who attended, the incredible entries who dedicate so much time and effort, and the businesses and sponsors who provide vital support, your contributions are what make this carnival such a phenomenal success.”
This year’s carnival on November 15 was dedicated to Maurice Day, who had been President and was a committee member for many years but died shortly before the event.
He was remembered at the start of the procession when music was switched off on the first two carts, those of Wells carnival clubs Globe and Gorgons, and members got off them to pause for a silent tribute, joined by people from other carts including members of Maurice’s family.
A picture of the carnival taken by Stunning Drone from a drone 120 metres above Wells Cathedral
Two new marshals were seen on the night helping to ensure that everything went smoothly – Bishop of Bath and Wells the Rt Rev Michael Beasley, and Dean of Wells the Rev Canon Toby Wright.
Before setting out, the Dean said: “As somebody who is new to Wells it’s something I’ve heard a great deal about and I’m really excited to see one of the great events for Wells during the year.”
Bishop Michael said that carnival was another facet of life in the community and they wanted to be a part of it: “It’s the first time really I’ve had the opportunity to take part, and it’s very exciting. It’s so much a part of our life in Somerset.”
The money collected on the night and through donations is still being counted, but organisers say early indications are that the collection is up on last year.
They say all who were on the route reported a very large crowd of spectators, and that the collection floats all did very well.