Lambourn Carnival Thrills with Parade, Prizes, and Community Spirit

The Lambourn Carnival burst into life on August 24, 2023, showcasing a vibrant parade filled with imaginative floats and lively participants. Villagers gathered along the streets to enjoy the spectacle, which included a plethora of themes ranging from pirates to beloved cartoon characters. The event commenced with judging at the sports club field, located off Bockhampton Road, before the parade made its way through the village.

Kiri Fowler, spokesperson for the organizing committee, expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement, stating, “A big ‘well done and thank you’ to all of the entrants – a great effort was made by all.” She also acknowledged the numerous volunteers who contributed to the event’s success, including road closure marshals, judges, and those managing the registration desk.

The carnival would not have been possible without support from local sponsors. Fowler highlighted contributions from Noll Countryside Services, TWL Plumbing and Heating Ltd, and several others, which helped fund essential aspects of the event, such as the parade band, rosettes, and the fireworks planned for November.

The carnival committee is actively seeking new volunteers for the 2026 event to ensure the tradition continues. Those interested in contributing can contact the committee via email at [email protected] or attend a meeting scheduled for 7:30 PM on September 25 at The Wheelwrights Arms.

Results of the Carnival Parade

The parade featured various categories, and the results reflected the creativity and effort displayed by participants. In the motorised categories, The Garden Shed by The Lambourn Shed & Youth Club won first place in Class A, while the McNultery Family‘s float inspired by Lilo & Stitch took top honours in Class B.

The equestrian category saw Maggie Hughes come out on top with her float themed around the Wizard of Oz. Other notable winners included Claire Way, who won first place in the Family Fancy Dress category with her rendition of Matilda, and Tracey Fisher, who won in the Push & Pull category with her float titled Lamb-bourn.

The event also featured awards for the best overall entries. The Jim Bracey Memorial Trophy for Best in Show was awarded to Maggie Hughes for her float, Wizard of Oz.

Scarecrow Competition Highlights

In addition to the parade, the carnival included a scarecrow competition, celebrating local creativity. Caz Farrell won the Best Scarecrow award, taking home the Scarecrow Trophy and a family hamper with her entry themed around The Beatles. Ellie-May Mooney won tickets to Welford’s Spectacle of the Lights for her scarecrow trail entry, while a group of participants, Amileigher, Kendria, and Hudson Pullin, received a £20 Amazon voucher for their win in The Lambourn Youth Junction Anagram contest.

The Lambourn Carnival not only provided a day of entertainment but also strengthened community ties, drawing residents together in celebration of local talent and tradition. With plans already underway for future events, the spirit of Lambourn remains vibrant and welcoming.