All set for biggest and best-yet Newbury Carnival

More than 10,000 people heading into town

THE stage is set for the biggest Newbury Carnival ever, with more than 10,000 visitors expected on Sunday and around 1,000 people participating in the parade.

For the first time, the carnival has financial backing from the Greenham Common Trust, transforming the event into a huge spectacle with nationally renowned acts.

Newbury Carnival is now officially one of the largest in the south of England.

Carnival committee chairman, Bryan Harper, said: “The event is now of such a size it is no longer sustainable by the efforts of volunteers alone.”

The chief executive for the Trust, Chris Boulton, said: “It was clear that, as the carnival has grown, it needed more financial support to help secure a successful and enjoyable day for all concerned.”

Around 55 entries, from massive floats to single walking entries, marching bands and musicians, will entertain the crowds with their colourful costumes and music.

Prizes will be awarded in eight separate categories for those best capturing the theme, ‘Heroes and Villains’.

The parade starts at 2pm from Pound Street and kicks off with the sounds of the Harley Davidson Drive Through, closely followed by the Rampage Mas Band, the Reading Scottish Pipe Band, and Newbury’s own Carnival Princesses, plus dozens of highly decorated floats, classic cars, and individuals, all led by the Newbury Town Crier.

In addition the Newbury carnival fete has more than 100 stalls, children’s rides and activities for all ages, a circus skills tent, horses, classic cars, a dog show and The Lions Carnival Duck Race.

It includes great music and dance performances throughout the afternoon at the main stage and arena.

These include the spectacular Rampage Mas Band to give Newbury a flavour of a Notting Hill Carnival, and the amazing Mini Band, aged 12 to 15 years, to inspire young musicians.

There are also many activities such as a range of sports, African Drumming or 'Hogan's Try-Out Instruments' sessions that are free of charge.

The fun starts at 12pm when the carnival fete opens in Victoria Park.

The carnival parade starts at 2pm and goes through Bartholomew Street, Northbrook Street, and The Broadway to the Clock Tower, finishing in Park Way.

If you want to join the record breaking parade there is still time and entry is free.

Details of how to join can be found at www.newburycarnival.co.uk

The Newbury Weekly News will be there, too - look out for us in Vicotira Park where you can have your picture taken for next week’s paper, which will have full coverage.

And for news on the day, check in with Newburytoday.co.uk