Shifnal Carnival back from the brink in real style

A Shropshire carnival – which almost folded last year – has had a spectacular turnaround with thousands flocking to the event this year.

Only three floats were entered into Shifnal Carnival 12 months ago. But delighted organisers today said the community had rallied around and 11 floats took part this year.

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Thousands lined the streets of the town to see the floats and three bands snake their way through the centre.

Organisers said they were thrilled with the support from the community and with the weather.

The carnival went ahead after appeals by the carnival committee for organisations and individuals to support it. And carnival chairman and treasurer Angela Mullet said she was thrilled by the turnout this year.

She added: "The community decided that this year it would get involved.

"We had 11 floats, including both our primary schools which was great to see.

"We also had three bands, the Stafford Lancers Marching band, the Oya Batucada Samba band and, standing in marvellously for the RAF Cosford band, the Shrewsbury Squadron, ATC band."

Overall float winner was Shifnal Primary School and its Mr Man theme while the return of the Shifnal War Memorial Club saw them win the best comic float with Michael Jackson's Thriller.

The carnival was opened by Tom Spencer who was on the organising committee in 1952. He travelled from Telford to perform the opening. Carnival Queen was 14-year-old Jessica Newling-Goode.

Mrs Mullet thanked the crowds who turned out to watch the carnival saying: "We must have had between 2,000 and 3,000 people on the streets. I would also like to thank members of the committee including the new faces, who have worked so hard and not forgetting the local businesses who kindly lent their lorries and drivers for the day."

By Sue Austin