Issue 505 – What a party! Carnival and Party in the Park draw in massive crowds
The organisers of Melksham’s Carnival and Party in the Park have hailed both events a runaway success, with the community turning out in force.
Thousands of people lined the streets to watch this year’s carnival procession, with King George V playing field packed with revellers for the Party in the Park.
Kathryn Allwood, chair of the carnival committee said the response from the community was “phenomenal”. She said, “I couldn’t believe how many people turned out for the carnival - the feedback from everybody has been brilliant.
“I would like to thank everybody who came along to support it and also everybody who helped out and took part in the procession and made it what it was.
“We are still counting all of the money that was donated on the day but so far we have made at least £1,000 which is excellent.”
Melksham & District Gateway Club were awarded the cup for the best float in the procession with its ‘Local Yokels’ theme. BBC Points West presenter Ali Vowles was on hand to present the cup to the group.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was the inspiration for the winning float in the ‘Pubs & Clubs’ category, entered by The Wild Bunch from Bromham. The Manor School won the cup for the ‘Best Youth Float’, with Cupcake Heaven being awarded the cup for the ‘Best Walking Group’. A group of friends were also awarded a cup in the ‘Independent’ category for the float ‘Gnoming Around’.
This year’s Party in the Park event was a busy affair, with thousands going through the gates during the day.
Live music provided a soundtrack to stalls and entertainment throughout the afternoon. Amongst the highlights were Titan the Robot, a giant robot which drew in large crowds with its unhinged antics. The evening saw a line-up of top bands, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
Nick Galpin, chair of the Party in the Park organising committee said, “Everyone I have a spoken to has been very positive about the event and the crowds during the evening looked to be having a great time.
“There was an unfortunate incident where somebody was burnt and had to be airlifted to hospital and we hope they are recovering quickly. Despite that, the committee is overjoyed with how the day and evening went - the turnout was excellent and the bands and entertainment was fantastic.”
July 21st, 2010 - 22:19
What a excellent day, the PITP was awesome and the Carnival was really good, best for years. Everybody involved in any way should be delighted, however why on earth did the carnival stop and not go through town- there was chaos in the town as the police opened the roads to early. I hope that doesnt follow next year. Its a shame that one person has moaned about the girls from Alan York photographers, whats the harm in it – they looked great, conducted themselves really well and fair play – I wouldnt have the guts for it. The problem is the idiots watching not the people in it, the police shoudl of been more on the ball and the Bear just needs shutting down or getting some responsible management. I look forward to next years event and hope that a few whingers and thugs dont spoil it and put people off making the effort to join in!