NINETY-FIVE years since its launch, Redditch Carnival brought music, colour and joy to the town centre on Saturday, September 21.
Undeterred by rain, organisers estimated that 2,000 people came out to cheer on the parade which featured several floats, motorcycles, marching bands and walkers.
Led by the town crier of Bromsgrove, Kevin Ward, the spectacle started at Birchfield Playing Fields, Headless Cross at 2.30pm and finished at Trinity High School in Grove Street.
Strollers marched to music from the Kings Norton Youth Marching Band, and the Oya Batucada Samba Band. They included children from Indigo Arts along with mini pirates, princesses and superheroes from the community.
This year’s carnival theme was family films and first place in the float competition was awarded to St George’s First School with a Bollywood display. Second went to Bootleggers line dancing group with a Pirates of the Caribbean ship and in third place was Brambles Residential Home with an under-the-sea theme.
From noon on Church Green families gathered in anticipation and enjoyed games, activities, and stalls selling food. Live entertainment on the bandstand included heartwarming performances from the Redditch female harmony group, The Violettes, modern choir Got 2 Sing, and signing choir, It’s a Sign.
As per tradition Wilson’s Amusements provided a variety of fun fair rides to suit all tastes from thrill-seekers looking for an adrenal rush to teacups and saucers for the youngsters.
Organiser Sue Yeng said: “There was a buzz at the bandstand while we were waiting for the parade with lots of lovely stalls. People were sharing their carnival memories.”
Newly elected MP Chris Bloore also joined in the fun along with the Mayor of Redditch Councillor Juma Begum and consort Coun Monica Stringfellow.
Pictures by Marcus Mingins 3924008MMR3
Event lead Jo Bussey added: “ Thank you to all the volunteers, businesses and organisations who helped bring the carnival to Redditch and everyone who joined in the parade. You did us all proud.
“I would also like to extend a big thank you to the carnival team, everyone played a vital role. The carnival simply wouldn’t happen without them.”
She told the Standard that she was particularly grateful to the Boys’ Brigade leaders and road marshalls for ensuring the safety of all members of the public during the parade.
Redditch Carnival first started in 1929 and ran every year except during 1940 and 1941 until 2000. In 2019 it made a welcome return to the town in 2019 after a 19-year absence.
Anyone who would like to get involved in organising next year’s event should email Jo at [email protected] for more information.
