By Isle of Wight Observer
East Cowes Carnival returned for a second year, after a 30-year-hiatus, with crowds lining the streets to cheer on the multitude of floats and entertainers.
The Medina Marching Band, formed in East Cowes 50 years ago, was given the privilege of leading the parade, and they were joined by the Vectis Corps of Drums, Fat Samba, and Wight Diamonds, while the West Highland Pipes and Drums entertained the crowds outside the Town Hall as everyone waited for the carnival to begin.
The New Carnival Company and Shade Makers UK delighted the crowds with their colourful costumes, and Ian Rann brought along the tractor which used to pull the East Cowes Queen’s float back in the 1980s. Waverley Park Holiday Centre entered the parade, and won Best Local Entry.
Carnival chairman, Carrie Lacey, said: “We’re so proud of what we’re building together. We also held a fantastic free Family Fun Day in the Town Hall, with all the acts giving their time and performing for free to help us raise funds for the carnival.
“There was also a special tribute to Tristan Price, who sadly died in a car accident last January, and we put a cardboard cut-out of him on the front of our float. Tristan was a close friend, a well-known Ventnor rugby player and security guard, and someone with a huge love of dressing up and getting involved in carnivals.
“We’re determined to keep building something special for our community, and we’re asking people to keep donating and supporting us for year three!”
Mal Butler