Hopes Ellesmere Carnival float will be given a boost

Thousands of people flocked to Ellesmere to enjoy this year’s carnival – and organisers have their fingers crossed that they have raised enough money to keep the event going next year and beyond.

The annual event in Cremorne Gardens depends on raising thousands of pounds towards its future running costs. Debbie Taylor said the carnival committee would know later this week how much money had been raised on Saturday.

She said: “It’s hard to say until the money has been counted.

“Each carnival costs at least £8,000 so we need to have collected £4,000 to give us a good start.

“We hope we can continue because it’s a good thing for Ellesmere.”

The committee is run by volunteers.

A number of groups joined in this years’ parade around the town and entertainment included a steel band, climbing frame, a paintball practice range and fair rides.

There were also craft and food stalls, mini Land Rovers, bands and dance troupes and circus acts.

There were two parades around the town, one at 1pm as well as an illuminated parade at 8.30pm.

Mrs Taylor said at least 3,000 people visited the town.

“It was a good day with all the usual entertainment,” she added. “We were very lucky with the weather because there was thunder in the morning but we only had a  couple of spots of rain in the afternoon.”

One of the dance groups had to abandon using their batons, however, when lightning reached the area.

The carnival king and queen were Dean Hall Howell and Kelsey Vermeulen-Roberts.