Cary shines as the rain pours!
The rain came down, but spirits remained high as a warm and welcoming crowd showed their appreciation for a fantastic procession. “To get such a good crowd when the weather is wet shows what a big heart our community has.” said Di Pinnions, Carnival Society chair, “Thank you to everyone who came out and made it such a great night!”
The procession was bigger than last year, with amazing creativity and quality on show. The crowd’s favourite entry was the funky tractor driver from Storm Carnival Club, who’s grooving threatened to burst him out of his cab!
Competition for best overall float was really tight between the awe-inspiring Hot Rock Carnival Cluband their Voyage to Valhalla and last year’s winner’s Kipling Carnival Club. This year, they edged it again with Blue Smoke. A smokin’ tribute to the Wild West.
The weather made for some drama with HMS Heron Marching band deciding to risk playing on despite the potential to damage their woodwind instruments from the rain.
Local carnival clubs were back in top form! The Ansford Academy team – now known as Ansford Entertainers Carnival Club – winning the Junior Cup, with a Harry Potter inspired float. And our very own Cary Comedians back on top sniggering form with Klingons from Uranus.
Setting the standard of walking entries were locals Sue and Curtis Pexton channelling Freddie Mercury with Royal Flush.
Sisters, Lottie and Izzy Wheeler kept it in the family with 1stand 2nd in the individual juvenile category. And congratulations to the samba inspired top-twirling of the Ilchester Gems who came first in the majorettes’ competition.
“We wondered how the collection for local charitable causes would be affected by the weather, and so I am delighted to say that from both carnivals we raised £2,300 for local charitable causes. It’s just a little down on last year – so I am very happy indeed. A very big thank you to our ever generous community!” said Jeannie Thanisch, Carnival Society Treasurer. “Thanks to everyone; our sponsors, marshals, collectors and the 100’s of other people who help make our big night out happen. Carnival spirit is alive and well in Cary!”