Bridgwater Carnival donates nearly £35k to local charities

Bridgwater Carnival is one of the largest illuminated processions in Europe

A carnival donated close to £35,000 to local charities that helped set up the event.

Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival raised the money at a firework display and on carnival night itself.

The biggest donation went to Bridgwater Rotary Club, which received more than £6,000.

Mike Dodden, treasurer at the carnival, said: "People look at the spectacle of the carnival and sometimes they forget about the impact on the local economy."

He added: "It really does raise huge sums of money.

"We are really stretched for manpower, so all of the organisations that we support financially support us in putting on the event.

"We are very proud of the carnival and of being able to donate to such good causes."

Dave Stokes, publicity director for the carnival, said: "The fundraising aspect of our carnival is often overlooked and doesn't always make the headlines it undoubtedly deserves, but it is another reason why we all volunteer and get involved with this prestigious event year after year."