I AM writing in reply to Mr Norris? letter (The spirit of carnival October 31).

Although it was correct in saying the number of Okehampton floats was low this year (being only three) and none from the town?s major employers, I feel as chairperson of the carnival committee I must point out that we have received financial support this year from Sprung Slumber, Waitrose, Heinz and the White Hart Hotel which was advertised on our carnival posters and also from Barrett Homes who sponsored the carnival queen?s float.

Those generous donations help to keep this annual event, that is so enjoyed by the whole town, running, and for this we are very grateful.

I have been on the committee for about 20 years and can remember a time not so long ago when local pubs and sports organisations always took part. Perhaps now is the time for everyone to start thinking about getting prepared for next year?s event.

At our annual general meeting in January we will be looking for new committee members, with new ideas.

Perhaps this year we will have some members of the public attend and be willing to join in the fun of arranging fundraising events through the year leading up to a bigger carnival in 2003.

Margaret Sage

6 Castle Road

Okehampton

WE are two sisters and our husbands, all from Okehampton, and through your paper we feel we must reply to the critical letter from William F G Norris, (October 31).

We have been involved in carnivals for many years ? firstly entering our own children in the afternoon children?s walking procession, and then, as they grew older and joined various youth groups (cubs, brownies, youth club etc), we helped those groups with their floats.

Whilst we appreciate the local content of the carnival was small, for it to be completely dismissed as being non-existent is very disheartening to those of us from Okehampton who regularly ?do our bit for the carnival and town? and enter a float each year.

Since our own families have grown up our interest in the carnival has never faltered and this is our eighth successive year of entering a float which we completely fund ourselves. We even ?borrow? children from friends each year to make our float more appealing to the many generations who watch the carnival.

If we can do it ? so can others! So, Mr Norris, instead of suggesting Okehampton?s major employers might like to enter a float next year (we hope they do!) why not get together with a few friends, borrow some children and enter a float yourself. Join in the fun!

It?s a great feeling taking part in the local carnival ? and even better if you win. We should know ? we?ve done it!

Shirley and Paul Friend

Maggie and Mike Kelly