CARNIVAL: Crunch meeting for Chard Carnival future

PEOPLE are being urged to attend a crucial meeting next week which could determine the future of Chard Carnival.

It could almost be the “last chance saloon” for the Carnival in Chard with only a handful of people understood to have come forward to potentially volunteer their time and efforts to retaining the colourful event – since news broke in October last year that the majority of the current organising committee would be stepping down.

The Chard Carnival Committee will be holding an EGM – Extraordinary General Meeting – at the Guildhall on Thursday (January 14, 2016) at 7.30pm.

Committee chairman Andy Chant, who will be standing down from the group in February, said: “There will be a discussion as to whether Carnival can continue in Chard.

“Nine members of the committee, myself included, have indicated that we still stand down at the annual general meeting in February.

“This will leave the committee without a chairman, treasurer and chief marshal – three very important jobs. There are other equally important, smaller vacancies, to be filled.

“So far it will leave just a handful of people to carry on.”

Andy added: “To ensure Carnival continues in the town we must find replacements.

“Anyone who wants to see Carnival keep going in the town please come to the meeting on Thursday, January 14, 2016, at the Guildhall.”

Chard Carnival was re-formed in 1967 and last October’s parade was the 48th during which time the organisers down the years have raised thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes.

A total of £4,370 was raised at the 2015 Chard Carnival and this will be shared out to a number of groups and organisations at the meeting with cheques presented by Miss Chard, Amy Winter, and Carnival Princess, Abi Winter.

PHOTOS: Taken during Chard Carnival 2015.

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