A traditional Dutch carnival band was formally welcomed to Burnham-On-Sea by the town’s Mayor and Mayoress on Sunday (November 2nd).
Martin and Arlene Cox welcomed the C.V. de Wallepikkers band from Zaltbommel in Holland during a civic reception held at the Burnham and Highbridge Town Council Chambers before Sunday evening’s fireworks display.
The 33 members of the band, Blaaskapel Spuugzat, are led by Prince Maerten XIV, and have been making formal visits to Burnham-On-Sea during the Carnival weekend every two years since 1995.
After exchanging gifts on Sunday, the Mayor was also invited to try on the ceremonial robes and head-dress of the group.
The band are playing in town centre pubs across Burnham during today (Monday) as part of the build-up the carnival. They also performed before the fireworks display on the seafront and at the Bay Centre for the Gateway Club.
“They are a lot of fun and it is great to give them a warm welcome to our towns during the carnival weekend,” said the Mayor. “Their super music adds to the overall fun atmosphere of the weekend.”
This year’s visit is being held in tribute to Dave Evans, who arranged the first visit from Holland in 1995, but recently sadly passed away.
