The South Petherton Carnival 2024

South Petherton came alive on Saturday, September 14, as the annual carnival returned in full swing, boasting the largest turnout in recent memory with 45 dazzling entries.
The streets were packed with spectators eager to witness the creativity and dedication displayed by participants, both local and from the carnival circuit. The event was a showcase of vibrant floats, intricate costumes, and lively performances.
The Brewers Arms Carnival Club took home the top prize in the feature category with their float titled "Brewers Arms is Never Far Far Away," They were followed closely by Wrong Side of the Roundabout CC, who brought a wave of nostalgia with their "Back to the 80s" float.
The comic category brought plenty of laughs, with One Plus One Carnival Club’s "Who’s Hungry" securing first place. Angies CC placed second with "The Lone Ranger" and third with "Black Swan Babes," which earned special recognition as part of the "Spirit of Carnival" award for their member Nancy, who celebrated her 90th birthday while still participating.
In the juvenile categories, Rubalo JCC shone brightly with their float "Birds of Paradise," which secured both first place and the coveted Best Overall Float award. For the walkers, Flynn Newbery's "Clowntastic" took home first in the juvenile walkers division.
Giana Fletcher, dressed as Princess Anna, placed second in the adult walkers category, while Spirit Carnival Club’s "Blue Willow" in third. The Eastern Promise Belly Dancers also won first place in the walking groups category.
The motorised floats delivered show-stopping performances, with ZEM Carnival Club’s "Master of the House" leading the way. South Petherton Sports & Social Club’s "Pethergascar" came in second. In the non-motorised category, Pickle CC’s "Pickle Gone Fishing" reeled in first place, followed by Burnworthy House.
South Petherton's schools were also well represented. The Infants School charmed the audience with "A Disney Celebration," while the Junior School’s "Wonka Surprise" was a hit with the judges, earning first place in their respective categories.
In addition to the competitive entries, several clubs and individuals were honoured for their contributions. Dee Gees CC took home Best Overall Walking for their "Send in the Clowns." The Committee Choice - Best Newcomer award went to Wrong Side of the Roundabout CC for their mysterious and grand float, while the Spirit of Carnival award was a touching tribute to Nancy from Angies CC.
A special mention was also made for the Martock Fire Station, Dolphin Marching Band, and the many majorettes teams, including the Ilchester Gems, who took first in the majorettes category, followed by Karizma Majorettes, Ilminster Diamonds, and Chard Evolution Majorettes.
Carnival chairman Luke Bennett said: “We had a fantastic evening on Saturday, and we were joined by a very high standard of entries from both local participants and those joining us from the circuit. With a total of 45 entries, this was our biggest carnival in many years."
He also highlighted the importance of the carnival as a community-driven event, noting that proceeds raised will go towards supporting local charities and organisations. “We are still counting our collection money, but we hope to have raised a good amount,” he added.
“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the evening possible or supported us in any way throughout the year. We really hope to see as many people out taking part and supporting us next year; let’s make 2025 even better.”