By Mal Butler
East Cowes was welcomed back onto the Island’s Carnival merry-go-round, for the first time in 30 years on Saturday.
The crowds returned to the town in big numbers to support the volunteers, who had put in so much to make sure the event went ahead.
Organiser, Jane Allchorn, said: “We had a full day of celebrations, with day-time entertainment on The Rec, with stalls and live music, and our special deal with hot-dogs and a drink flew out of the kitchen!
“There were big crowds there throughout the day, which was lovely to see, and they were there to support the parade once it started with so many people lining the streets.
“There was a real buzz about the town and we have had so many positive messages over the weekend. There was an energy around the place which hasn’t been there since before lockdown, and the shops stayed open to benefit as well.
“We haven’t finished counting the buckets, but we took more than £1,100 with another £600 during the day, which will pay for next year’s insurance, so I’m hoping, with a few more volunteers on board, we will be doing this again and giving the community something to look forward to.”
Fat Samba, Medina Marching Band and Vectis Corps of Drums have all had a busy carnival season, and were in action again as St Helens celebrated on Monday.
The carnival, which chose an Alice in Wonderland theme for its float, hosted other carnival floats to take part in the procession, including Ventnor’s multi-award-winning float, The Royal Ventnor Express, Newport and East Cowes, fresh from their success on Saturday.
The New Carnival Company and their giant puppets were another feature of the parade, with the festivities finishing off a day of fun in the village which included a tug-of-war.
And they all were out again on Wednesday night for Sandown Illuminated Carnival, along with a host of colourful floats and an array of community participants.
There was a lot of talent on show, and the Committee Choice Award went to the fabulous performers of The Wight Strollers. Shanklin Voluntary Youth & Community Club (SVYCC), and High Sheriff, Jacque Gazzard, took the opportunity to present George Jenkins, who has supported Island carnivals and events for 50 years, a thank you for helping with their TV and film themed float.
Sandown Carnival chairman, Paul Coueslant, said: “It’s been an exciting season and it was lovely to put on a spectacular final show. Now we will all start planning for 2026 to make sure the Island’s long carnival tradition stays a favourite part of the summer.”
The season comes to an end this weekend in Ryde, following last night’s (Thursday’s) main Carnival in the town, the Ryde Illuminated Carnival takes place tomorrow (Saturday), starting at 8.30pm, when the crowds will again be out in force.
Isle of Wight Observer