Newport Carnival was ‘Just like the old days’

A variety of new floats was greeted to huge cheers, as the crowds came out in force for the Newport Carnival in the Saturday evening sunshine.

Carnival organiser, Paddy McHugh, said: “It was just like the old days when the streets were packed, like they were years ago.

“The crowds were everywhere and loved The Bournemouth Carnival Band who were all dressed as Spider Man; we had a great turn out in all areas. Carisbrooke Mall and the High Street were full of spectators and so was South Street.

“There were so many highlights, including the return of the Wight Strollers and the Wight Diamonds Marching Band, while the New Carnival Company and their giant puppets were another first for us, along with a converted helicopter from the Windmill Campsite.”

Newport Carnival Main Results: Spirit of Carnival: 1 New Carnival Company, 2 Ryde Carnival, 3 Vectis Corp Drums; Royalty: 1 Ventnor, 2 Ryde, 3 St Helens; Best Overall: Rumble in the Jungle by The Wight Strollers; Best Construction: The Pier by Sandown Carnival; Community floats: 1 Rumble in the Jungle by The Wight Strollers, 2 Bill and Ben by Carni Beats, 3 Johns Club; Pedestrian Community Groups: 1 Get on Stage by Youth Theatre, 2 Lions Club by Victoria Ward, 3 Newport Scouts.

It’s the turn of Ventnor Carnival Week on Wednesday with both the children’s (noon from Dudley Road) and main events (7pm from Albert Street) taking place, followed by the Illuminated Carnival next Saturday (August 16) at 9pm.

Along the way, there will be many railway events and activities, and one of the highlights will be a community day in Ventnor Park next Friday (August 15), from noon, when the park will be buzzing with music and stalls, and activities for the children, including Stevo the magician, a circus workshop, Caulkhead productions and games. Watch out for the touch of steampunk and the railway themes.

Also, before the illuminated carnival on August 16, from 10am in St Catherine’s Church, there will be model railway exhibition. During the week there will be other activities including a train-theme treasure hunt, quiz and bingo. Full details in programme.

View the gallery at: iw.observer/newport-carnival-pics