Despite there being no parade this year, Abergavenny and District Carnival on the 14th July was still a packed day that offered something for all the family.
Bailey Park began to fill up early Saturday morning with stalls from local businesses and craft workers, community associations and charities; Deakin’s funfair managed to negotiate the mud to set up their rides and attractions; the cycling festival had already started the early races; the caterers were already making the tea and the arenas were set out. But it was from midday onwards that the fun really started!
The local ATC marching band opened proceedings with a great performance, and warmed up the crowds ready for Paws for Thought Dog display team. The dogs delighted the crowds during their two performances with agility, tricks and even fire jumping! The entertainment continued with Biker Urban Morris Dancers, The Rhumney Coronets and Fiery Jack’s Circus skills, and was closed by Abergavenny Kick boxers, who displayed their skills learned during weekly practices at Deri View School.
Alongside the entertainment arena, the ever popular ‘It’s a Knockout’ competitions continued throughout the afternoon. Teams from the local area, including Cantref School, The Bailey Pub, The ATC and The Hockey Club battled it out through freezing water, over slippery inflatables and whilst wearing very silly costumes! The results were close, but in the end, local team ‘Snap On’ were victorious!
Unfortunately, there were only a few entrants to the Carnival Fancy dress competition, but this meant that Judges Cllr. Sam Dodd (Abergavenny Mayor) and the local Vicar decided to award all entries a prize for their efforts.
Abergavenny and District Carnival Committee would like to thank everyone who came, performed, ran stalls and helped on the day, and would particularly like to thank Abergavenny Town Council, who are the main financial sponsors of the event.
As the committee is small and made up of volunteers who all work full time, it is not an easy task to organize such a big event! We are always looking for people or organizations who are willing to help out either on the day or throughout the year as part of the committee. For more information or to offer your help, please contact Gemma Taylor by email (hunt.gemma@yahoo.com) or Chairman Chris Evans on 07535 939516.
