Future of Newport Carnival under threat
Newport Carnival is under threat unless people come forward to help organise the event, it has been revealed.
Despite having enough financial support, organisers of Newport Carnival are asking for more help after three people turned up to its annual meeting this week.
The carnival has been running for about 40 years and attracts thousands of people to the town each year, which boosts the local economy.
Many of the local schools take part in the parade with around 30 floats travelling through the high street.
However without enough people on the committee there will be "no carnival at this moment in time."
Patrick Beech, vice chairman of the event said: "I attended the annual meeting on Thursday night to find only three hard working members present.
"They are struggling to keep it together and unless more manpower was forthcoming for 2016 these would resign, resulting in Newport at this moment with no carnival for next year.
"The finances are absolutely sound and this is a perfect opportunity for a committee to be formed.
"The carnival has been the town's major attraction in June for over 40 years and attracts some 5,000 people, bringing in footfall to the High Street and boosting businesses.
"As well as being the vice chairman of the carnival I am the chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, and I cannot afford this to fold.
"People from Telford, Wolverhampton and Stafford come the carnival as it is loved by many outside of the town.
"It would be very sad to lose that.
"Every year more and more people attend the carnival, it just keeps on growing."
Mr Beech said he had now called an emergency meeting over the carnival's future.
"It will be held on November 12 at the back of the Pheasant in Newport at 7pm and invite organisations, schools and people young and old.
"This is also a chance for new homeowners who have come to live in the area and all will be warmly welcomed .
"Please give your support to help organise the towns major event and the carnivals survival and I look forward to seeing you on November 12."
For more information contact Newport Shropshire Carnival via its Facebook page or attend the meeting.
