West country carnival is growing in popularity

Somerset's carnival tradition is slowly recovering, clubs say

Carnival clubs say their popularity is growing once again after the pandemic and lockdown "took a lot of clubs".

Gemini Carnival club based in Ilminster said they are an important way of bringing the community together, even outside of Somerset's famous carnival season.

As a lot of cultural activities took a hit after lockdown but the carnival tradition is said to be slowly recovering.

"We're always looking for new members, but popularity has increased, which is really good," Liz Toms, chair of the club, said.

A century-old tradition

The west country carnival circuits are an annual celebration usually around bonfire night, dating back to the gunpowder plot of 1605.

Carnival clubs across the region spend all year making carts for the parades, some of them elaborate, costing thousands of pounds to construct.

The UK's oldest carnival is celebrated in Bridgwater, which is also one of the largest illuminated processions in Europe.

Organisers estimate Bridgwater alone brings in around £4m to the local economy.

"It makes the town very vibrant," said Paul Savage, a compere for the carnival.

"Having been born and bred here myself, there's many families here that have been involved with the carnival for several years and their children and their children all get involved," he added.

Carnival processions start in September and go up until Bonfire Night on 5 November.

The Somerset carnival tradition has been going strong for centuries

James Venning from the Ramblers Carnival Club, who are the current champions of Bridgwater Carnival, said winning has been a "big deal" for them.

"We are really happy with our entry this year, we are doing a giant pinball machine, and it’s been a really busy 12 months planning and putting together the final details," he added.

Carnival clubs also run other community activities such as music quizzes, cream tea, to raise money - but also to bring the community together.

"Our monthly breakfast is always well attended. We sell about 70-100 breakfasts a month, they've grown in popularity," Ms Toms said.

"It's trying to get the local community together."

People of all ages take part in Somerset's carnival processions

Andy Bennett, BBC Radio Somerset presenter, has been part of the county's carnival tradition for nearly 30 years.

"The excitement of carnival is like a buzz around the county at this time of year, I’ve been involved for nearly 30 years and I’m still blown away by the commitment and the dedication that this hobby requires.

"The fact that it still excites me after doing it for so long just goes to show what a big deal the November carnivals are for so many people in Somerset."

Clubs work "up until the wire" to finish their carts

Dave Jennings, cart captain at Griffens' Carnival Club, said it takes a lot of effort to keep running carnival.

"Every year the cost of materials and lighting increases, so we all have to try and stay one step ahead of the game. We’ve had some very late nights over the last few weeks, as all clubs have," Mr Jennings said.

"Clubs always work right up until the wire, there’s always something to do.”

Ms Toms added that things were "gradually building back up" after Covid took a toll on a lot of clubs.

"We didn't have any carnivals, everything had to stop," she said.

"It took a dip.

"It is a huge commitment, if you want it to be, but we also welcome members who want to help ad-hoc."

She added that it was also a good opportunity to "learn new skills", such as painting and wood work - "but in a social environment with no pressure", she said.

"The key thing is it's fun. Everyone enjoys it."