Carnival organisers shorten Shropshire parade route after marshals face threats and abuse from motorists

Market Drayton Carnival is due to return this weekend with a jam-packed day of entertainment.

The annual celebration, one of Market Drayton’s biggest community events, is set to draw thousands on Saturday (July 18) as the parade, live music and family attractions take over the north Shropshire town.

Families can enjoy fairground rides, free balloon animals, inflatables, alpacas, face painting and a wide range of stalls on Cheshire Street.

Organisers say the event remains a major highlight of the summer, run entirely by volunteers and supported by local businesses, charities and community groups.

But this year, the carnival parade route will be shorter than usual, with organisers citing safety concerns and a shortage of experienced marshals.

In a statement, organisers said it takes 30 marshals to safely close and manage the roads for the parade. In previous years, many volunteers have reportedly faced abuse from motorists - including swearing, shouting and even threats to drive at them.

“Unfortunately it is the minority that have ruined it,” a spokesperson for the carnival committee said.

“This year we just do not have the number of experienced marshals to safely close the roads for the longer route and we have had very few volunteers offer support.

“We also don’t think it is right to ask people for their time to then be abused.

They added that the decision “hasn’t been taken lightly” and that the revised route still covers the main areas where spectators traditionally gather.

“We understand that some people will be disappointed by this - we hope that if you are able, you will make it to the centre to watch. We hope you can appreciate the decision and we look forward to everyone coming out to join us and celebrate.”

The parade is due to set off from the Towers Lawn car park at 12pm and loop the town via Frogmore Road, Smithfield Road, Stafford Street and back onto Frogmore Road past the Festival Drayton Centre.

Road closures will be in place along the route between 11.30 and 2.30pm to facilitate the safe passage of the carnival parade, with organisers stating they will endeavour to reopen the roads “as soon as possible”.

Parking at Queen Street car park will also be suspended from 6pm on Thursday, July 16 until 12pm on Monday, July 20 to accommodate the fair. Any cars left in the car park will be blocked in, though residents will still have access.