Shropshire Star

Thousands turn out as Oakengates Carnival returns for first time in four years

A full day of family entertainment was the order of the day as Oakengates Carnival returned for the first time in four years.

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Ice creams all round as this family looked to cool down at Oakengates Carnival.

Under a scorching sun, thousands of residents turned out for a host of performers and activities on Saturday – with the traditional procession leading into an afternoon of activities at Hartshill Park.

It comes after a three-year absence for the carnival – with 2020 and 2021 falling victim to the pandemic, before last year's event was cancelled at short notice due to the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Army Cadets Mia Morris, Lewis Wallace, and Lacie Butters, at Oakengates Carnival.
Olivia Jones practices the unicycle with Danny Preece and aunt Kathy Jones.
Fabian Ogude, 9, enjoys the inflatable slide

Organised by Shropshire Festivals on behalf of Oakengates Town Council and sponsored by DMOS People, the day opened at 10.30am with free candy floss, outdoor games, and the Salvation Army brass band in Theatre Square with music and circus skills on Market Street.

The carnival procession, featuring local performing arts and community groups, classic cars, Telford Tigers, Wonderland, and vintage vehicles, took centre stage from 11.30am, marching, dancing, and winding its way to Hartshill Park for an afternoon of entertainment.