ONE of the best ever ? that was the verdict on this year?s Tavistock Carnival Week with Saturday?s collection during the procession raising the most money in the event?s history.
It was a record-breaking week, according to carnival organisers the Lions Club who said activities attracted large crowds.
The week culminated in Saturday?s procession through the streets which took the theme ?Pastimes and Leisure Activities?.
For the first time a walking entry won the top prize with St Rumon?s Infants School in Tavistock impressing the judges with their maypole dancing entry.
More than £2,500 was collected on the night and this will be distributed among charity groups, clubs and schools that participated in the procession, plus local youth projects, including Tavistock Youth Cafe, and Tavistock Hospital.
President of Tavistock Lions Club Janet Nowell said: ?It was one of the best carnivals we have ever had, and on behalf of the club I would like to thank all those who gave their support and who took part in the many events throughout the week.?
A jazz event, fun day in the Meadows and pavement artists? competition were all well attended with a record 45 children participating in the latter activity.
In view of the 900th anniversary of the granting of Tavistock?s Charter and in celebration of being voted best market town in the country, next year?s carnival theme will be ?Tavistock through the Ages.?
l See Letters, page 4.