Bridgnorth Town Council could take back seat roll in carnival

At a Bridgnorth Events Committee meeting on Tuesday, the council passed a motion to explore the possibility of wider community engagement in the structure, organisation, delivery and shaping of the event in years to come.

Members of the public and local businesses will be asked to give ideas and express views on any aspect of the carnival, whether it be pitching in a suggestion on an individual interest or taking a significant role in how the whole carnival is run.

The council said the meetings could lead to it stepping down from running the carnival completely in years to come, similarly to how Shrewsbury Carnival is currently operated.

Lee Jakeman, town clerk, said the goal was for the council to support any residents that want to take part whether the role be small or large.

"I would like to start getting people on board this year, even if they pitch ideas and shadow the council to see how things work, with the potential for it one day to be run by a carnival committee.

"We're not after a treasurer or secretary, it's about getting the public in and seeing what they want to change or add – we don't want litter pickers, we want front of house organisers.

"Whether we have two residents asking about how to enter a float, or 10 people taking a strong interest in running the event, it'll be a positive outcome.

"My view is that the carnival can run more smoothly without the council, although we will always be there to offer any support and sort the ground work if we're needed."

Councillor Sarah Stevens, who represents West ward, added: "A dedicated carnival committee could do a load of good.

"If we can get more of the community involved I can't see why the carnival can't be more successful then it's ever been."

The meetings are set to be held at 1.30pm to 2.45pm on April 3, at the Community Hall in Low Town, and 7pm to 8.30pm on April 4 at Castle Hall.