'Incredible' carnival unites community

THIS year's Winterbourne Down Village Carnival on May 1 brought big crowds onto the streets, and raised around £3,500 for a good cause. Kathryn Hopes from the carnival committee reflects on the day. All pictures by official carnival photographer Tony Bundy.

WORDS failed me when I finally sat down on the Monday evening to reflect on the success of this year’s May Day, but I realise that’s not so good when you have to write about it!

I’ve now had time to take stock of how truly incredible the day was and, on behalf of the carnival chair John Turner and the committee, we would like to say a huge thank-you to each and every one of you who visited the Winterbourne Down Village Carnival ‘23.

We were thrilled and humbled by the turn-out - clearly word has spread, and we had visitors from far and wide this year.

We had a jam-packed lineup, with performance after performance all day.

Food stalls sold out in record time and people were still browsing the stalls late into the afternoon, after which most of you headed in droves to the Cross Hands for the live music.

All in all, it was a thoroughly entertaining family day out.

As you know, our chosen charity this year was St Peter’s Hospice. They set up camp on the Methodist green and were overwhelmed by the response.

Their volunteers were kept busy all day, so we’re over the moon to be able to reward the charity with a sizeable donation.

Money is still rolling in, but at the last count we’re looking to have raised in the region of £3,500.

John says he was “thrilled to see our community come together to celebrate May Day and raise so much money for charity”.

He's already thinking about next year and is keen to build on this year’s success, at which point I’d like to offer you the opportunity to join us in the planning.

If you’re keen to get involved, follow us on Facebook for details of our next meeting.

How about it, same time next year?