A series of illuminated carnivals in November that attract tens of thousands of visitors to Somerset have been cancelled due to Coronavirus – but the organisers of Burnham-On-Sea’s carnival say they still hope to hold a small event instead.
The circuit – which includes Bridgwater, the UK’s oldest carnival – was formally called off today (Monday) due to the organisers’ concerns over health and safety.
The circuit includes Glastonbury, Weston-super-Mare and Wells. Others cancelled are Highbridge and Burnham-On-Sea, North Petherton, and Shepton Mallet.
David Churches, Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnivals Association Secretary, said: “Unfortunately illuminated carnivals like we have been accustomed to in Somerset will now not take place this year and will be sadly postponed.”
“It is highly unlikely that any large gatherings of people will be allowed until there is a vaccination for COVID-19, and when this is combined with the ongoing social distancing arrangements which will remain in place for some considerable time yet, there is very little chance of the towns and the entries of being able to raise the necessary monies needed to put on such spectacular events.”
“When this is combined with the ongoing social distancing arrangements which will remain in place for some considerable time yet, there is very little chance of the carnival committee and the entries of being able to raise the necessary monies needed to put on such a spectacular event.”
Phil New, Chairman of Highbridge and Burnham Carnival, pictured, told Burnham-On-Sea.com today (Monday): “At this stage, we still aim to still have a parade of some sort on November 9th – but it won’t be the usual carnival that we are used to seeing.”
“There may be a walking parade of some sort, but we will fully abide by the Government’s guidelines at the time.”
“If the parade were due to take place this month, for example, then we wouldn’t go ahead as we would not want crowds of tourists travelling to Burnham to see it. As the time gets closer to the event, then we will make a final decision.”
