ORGANISERS of Bere Alston Carnival say they want to make this year’s event epic after last year’s had to be cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The carnival, along with a host of other events around West Devon, became a victim of the virus when a series of government-backed restrictions meant it had to be postponed until the crisis had passed.

Carnival secretary Fiona Maddock said the organising committee was excited that the event was back on the calendar this year.

She said the village’s carnival week would start with a parade on Saturday, May 28, at 2.30pm from the Recreational Field on The Down, and will follow the bus route around the village. The week will finish with a fun day on Saturday, June 4.

The theme is ‘Music of the Reign’. Entries can choose their favourite band, song, album, singer or genre from the last 70 years during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Categories are artistic floats, comedy floats; walkers, consisting of one or two people; walkers (group), something different such as roller blades and cycling, horses, outstanding vehicle and visiting queens.

There will be a new prize for the Carnival Queen and attendants’ favourite entry. The prize is in memory of former carnival chairwoman, Beryl Mills, who passed away last year. This year’s Bere Alston carnival queen and attendants are Luna-may Ware, Ruby Perkin and Aoife Medhurst.

Mrs Maddock said: ‘It’s great to be back and we look forward to seeing everyone there and all the wonderful entries. Let’s make this one epic.’