Warsop Carnival - 2009

This years's theme - Best of British!

Record numbers streamed through the gates at this year's Warsop Carnival on Sunday July 5th. The crowds in excess of the expected 10,000, flocked from near and far to enjoy the fun and perfect summer weather, which this year made a mockery of the theme - Best of British! The carnival organisers planned for 'rain as usual' and to ensure the fun couldn't be spoilt by the great British weather, the main attraction this year was a big top circus. Well, the sun shone throughout. Just as well, otherwise the crowds might not have been graced by the presence of the Red Arrows Fly Past at 14:21 with their red, white and blue smoke trails.

The carnival procession kicked off the event at noon, led by Super Hero Barry, followed by circus performers, marching bands, classic cars and floats provided by Bowrings Transport. Handwaving flags were given to children en route and were handed into a prize draw later in the afternoon, sponsored and organised by Farrendale Electricals. The prize of a BMX bike and helmet was won by 11 year old Oliver Wetton from Edwinstowe. New for this year and very popular, was the Scruffs Fun Dog Show, which included classes such as 'Best Biscuit Catcher' and 'Dog the Carnival Queen Would Like to Take Home'. Judging by the number of entrants, the dog show is likely to be back at future carnivals. The It's a Knockout Roadshow returned for the second year - back by popular demand and teams cooled off in the water slides and obstacles to compete for the prize of first place.

Over fifty local groups and organisations ran charity stalls to raise money for their funds. Local sports, arts and crafts were demonstrated, including 'Have a Go' sessions organised by the canoe club, water colour demonstration by local artist Mark Pidduck, a potters wheel and the Creswell Crags handling collection. The carnival programme design winner had a chance to see their masterpiece spray painted onto a large wall by a graffiti artist (sponsored by Warsop Post Office) and there was even a great British beach (sponsored by Mansfield Sand), complete with buckets and spades and a Punch and Judy Show. All time regulars were the ever popular Rotary Club Duck Race, Flower, Veg and Cake show, with more than ever classes for children and bigger than ever cash prizes. The music marquee Battle of the Bands and Paul Newbury prize, with a performance by Hope Bradley, winner of Warsop's Got Talent!

The grand finale of the carnival was a performance by Welbeck Estates Brass Band and a singalong by the crowd, to Land of Hope and Glory. It truly was a Great British Day Out!! Photographs are on the forum.