By Press Release
The chairwoman of Newport Carnival for more than 20 years, June Winchcombe, died at Mountbatten last Friday (April 7), aged 79, following a long illness.
June was credited with saving the carnival after there was a risk of it being scrapped at the start of the Millennium. With a small team of volunteers, she worked tirelessly to carry on and make it the success it is today.
Among the many tributes, current chairman, Paddy McHugh, said: “I joined many years ago assisting with stewarding and organising of Newport Carnival.
“In 2019, June asked if I could help prepare for our centenary in 2022, so we worked together on what she wanted – something that turned out to be ‘one of the best carnivals the Island has seen since the 80s’.
“June became unwell and in January 2022 she handed the reigns to me to continue her great work.
“But still, June was ‘The Boss’ and always will be. This is so, so, sad to write, as June was a great friend to myself, and so many of the committee. She also helped me out personally when things were tough. I have so much to thank her for, but it’s hard to put into words.”
Les, June’s eldest son, said: “Mum passed away peacefully with her family around her, at the Mountbatten Hospice.
“We cannot thank the staff and volunteers enough for their care and the kindness they showed towards our mum and us during her time there.”