Thousands of people are expected to line the streets of Saffron Walden when the ‘Carnival of Nations’ heads through the town today (Saturday, July 5).
It promises to be a great afternoon of entertainment for the whole family.
With more than 80 decorated floats, marching bands, vintage vehicles and more – all led by the Carnival Queen and her attendants – the procession launches the carnival in style.
The procession route begins on Common Hill and travels through East Street, Thaxted Road, Peaslands Road, Mount Pleasant Road, Borough Lane, London Road, High Street, Castle Street, Castle Hill and back to the Common. Residents are urged to ensure their vehicles are clear of these areas on procession day.
Carnival chairman Jason Thomson said: “The procession is one of the important fundraising events for the carnival.
“Many procession participants will be collecting money along the route, so bring your spare pound coins and even your pennies.”
Procession participants will muster on the Common at noon and set off at 2pm. As always it will be led by the carnival queen and her attendants. People taking part in the procession do not have to ride on floats – groups are welcome on foot, riding in open cars, or aboard the old favourite, a tractor/trailer combination.
Organisers want to ensure that safety comes first.
“I implore the public to show common courtesy and respect to everyone involved as well as the public around them,” added Mr Thomson.
“Obviously that should not limit the fun!”
• For more carnival details, including event, visit 8dayweekend.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here