Community comes together for carnival
FAMOUS film and stage productions were brought to life at the weekend as carnival fever hit Crowthorne.
Hundreds of spectators lined the High Street to watch the procession wind its way through the village for the popular biennial community event on Saturday.
Schools, nurseries, churches and community groups came together to form part of the 27-float parade, which was decorated in accordance with this year’s Strictly Showtime theme.
Young and old came as characters from The Lion King, The Wizard of Oz, Cats and other hit production as they braved a few rain showers on the way to Morgan Recreation Ground where the carnival continued.
Sheila Tims, a member of the carnival committee, said: “It has been manic, but brilliant – and we got the sunshine. It is much bigger this year, we had a lot more floats and so there is a lot more people.
“Every other year, people see it happening and they just want to be part of it. Crowthorne is a village that just comes together. It is a community event and it is brilliant to see all these people.”
Crowthorne residents Andrew and Emma Barker visited the carnival for the first time this year. Mrs Barker said that the procession was good and a lot of people made a lot of effort.
Following the procession, the fun continued at the recreation ground with live performances, fairground rides, barbecues and stalls.
Laura Thomas’s daughter was part of Crowthorne Village Pre-School’s circus themed float.
She said: “It is my first time in the procession but I come to the carnival every year. The whole community gets involved and it is a friendly atmosphere. It brings everybody together.”
Hatch Ride Primary School scooped the award for best overall float.
Carnival fever continues until Monday, with other events. Visit www.crowthornecarnival.co.uk for details.