REDDITCH Carnival was hailed a success, after hundreds of people attended the long-awaited event.
The parade started at 2.30pm from Osprey House and journeyed along Albert Street, Prospect Hill, Clive Road and Unicorn Hill before ending at Easemore Road.
The parade included four full-sized lorry floats – Bumblebee and Aerial, Someone at the Door samba band, the Air Cadets and the Starley Dancers.
The fun begun at 10am in the town centre with a multitude of activities, including performances at St Stephen’s Church, Wilsons Funfair and a host of stalls at the bandstand.
A fancy dress fun run, in conjunction with the Kingfisher Harriers Running Club, took place in the afternoon, while vintage vehicles and classic cars were dotted around the town centre.
The event raised funds for local causes and the logo has been designed by ten-year-old Amy Dixon after competition.
After an absence, Redditch Carnival returned in 2019.
Covid meant the 2020 and 2021 events could not be held and then last year’s was cancelled as a mark of respect following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Event lead Jo Bussey said: “It went amazing – I was blown away by the number of people from the Redditch community who came out and supported it.
“People said the event was outstanding and the parade was beautiful – we couldn’t have wished for better praise and feedback.”
The Best Float was awarded to Starlight School of Dance for its ‘Pantoland’-themed lorry.
Jeanette Haines, one of the principals, said: “We had participated in walking parades and processions before but this was the first time we had done a lorry float.
“We couldn’t believe we won ‘Best Float’ – we were just happy to be there. The kids absolutely loved it and the atmosphere was amazing. The little ones, who are only four, behaved so well during the parade.”
More people are being sought for the Redditch Carnival committee to help organise next year’s event. Email [email protected] for more details.
A ‘Carnival of Light’ is also taking place on November 25. Visit the ‘Redditch Carnival’ Facebook page for more on that.
