Thousands support Hinckley's 2010 Carnival

TOWNSPEOPLE turned out in their thousands to support Hinckley Carnival's traditional parade through the streets, followed by the funfair and fete on Clarendon Park.

In fact, it was so successful that over £1,400 was collected during the parade through the town, which is a record for the day.

Carnival Queen Emma Carter, together with her Maids of Honour, Stacey Padfield and Talitha Anders, led the parade of 19 floats and 12 walking groups as they made their way through the town to the fete field.

Also at the front of the procession was the Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth, Cllr Sandra Francks.

The winners of the float competition were Vicky Anne School of Dance, runners-up were Westfield Community Centre and third were Hinckley Club for Young People.

The tug of war was won by Jimmys, who beat The New Plough Inn in the final.

Amongst those taking part in the parade were Westfield Wanderers Football Club, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary (see photo on gallery page). The football club was founded in 1990 by the current Carnival Chairman Neil Turvey.

Although Westfield did not win a top three slot in the Carnival float competition the participants on the float certainly had a great day.

The club has gone from strength to strength since Neil first approached the community centre back in 1990 when centre manager Dave Roberts agreed to the use of the facilities, and the first two teams (an under 10s and under 12s side) were the first to train at the site.

After the first year an under 8s team was added, which included the first female to play at the club (Michelle Burrows) and the former England and Liverpool goalkeeper, currently the Wigan Athletic 1st team goalkeeper Chris Kirkland.

The committee would like to thank Balloonatics for providing the Carnival Mascot, Tinny Hat, which marched in the procession on Carnival Day for the first of many outings.

Tinny will now appear as a representative for the Carnival at all future events. The mascot cost in excess of £500 to be manufactured and sports the Balloonatics logo.

The committee also wishes to thank Brindley’s Transport, Premier Logistics and Wykin Shires in particular, without whom the Carnival would have not been the success it was.

If any businesses want to become involved in the biggest event in the town's calendar, Carnival Chairman Neil Turvey can be contacted on (01455) 234658.

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