COLOUR, fun and music were at the heart of this year’s Tavistock Carnival Day with local people turning out in their hundreds to support the ‘Road to Rio’ themed event.

Organised by the Lions Club of Tavistock, the carnival raised £2,286.26.

The procession, which included 13 flamboyant floats and an array of adults and children dressed in a variety of vibrate costumes, was bursting with excitement, wonder and community spirit similar to that of an Olympic opening ceremony.

Lions member Steve Grummitt described the carnival as: ‘One of the best processions I have seen for many years!’

This year saw a shorter procession route and a new judging procedure put in place to decrease the walking distance and waiting time for participants.

The new route was embraced positively; however, the new judging method received mixed reviews. Steve said that in the next 12 months the organisers will be working on tweaking the judging procedure.

Best in procession was awarded to Lamerton Primary School, which also took the prize for best decorated float.

The winners of walking class 1 were the Kansas Old Time Music Greats. Tavistock Community Primary School was triumphant in walking class 2 and the winner of walking class 3 was the Tavistock Towing Services.

Steve also said that the procession was a fantastic way to end the carnival week which consisted of many other exciting events and activities including an ‘All White on the Night’ event.

Winner of the funday dog show was: Louis, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, owned by Beryl Kowalski. Reserve was: Clary, golden retriever, owned by Cathy Hipsey.

The Tesco team was crowned champions at the Trader’s Skittles Competition.

Pavement Artists Competition: Under 5 years winner, Marcus Appleby; 2, Rosie Walker; 3, Lola Peek. Aged 5 to 8 years: 1, Angel Holland; 2, Albert Manning; 3, Yasmin Harding. Nine and over: 1, Alexandra Ley; 2, Ellie Veale; 3, Amber Burden.

The profits of the carnival will be distributed to the charity groups, clubs and schools that participated in the procession and the other events during carnival week. Next year’s carnival day will be held on Saturday July 15, 2017, the theme has yet to be decided but the Lion’s Club is welcoming any suggestions.

For more pictures see the July 21 edition of the Times.