By Isle of Wight Observer
Carnival Queens from 1977 and 1981, Sarah Dafter and Jan Plucknett, were among the visitors to the Freshwater & Totland Archive Group’s exhibition of local carnivals at Totland Parish Hall.
Sarah, accompanied by two of her grandchildren, saw pictures of herself on the 1977 Queen’s Carnival Float, while Jan’s 1981 float was based on Wedgwood Blue Jasperware, with the girls dressed in white Grecian-style dresses. The float won nine awards across the Island.
Robert and Sheila Young, who popped over from Shanklin, said: “The exhibition is painstakingly researched and brings back so many memories – the old film of past processions was especially interesting.”
Janet Haire, a former teacher and the group’s archivist, added: “We were delighted by the attendance, and new volunteers – especially those with IT skills – are always welcome and can help with our next project.”
Group chairman, Colin Piper, who was born in West Wight 82 years ago and whose sister was Carnival Queen in 1953, said: “We are still re-organising the archive in our new home, thanks to the parish council, with plans for displays on houses, military, people, and shops – working our way alphabetically through our extensive archive.”
Mal Butler