THE “amazing success” of Saffron Walden Round Table’s carnival will see some �50,000 dished out to local charities and voluntary organisations.

An impressive spectacle of family fun, themed evenings and a record-breaking procession created a buzz in the town during the eight-day extravaganza.

Carnival committee chairman Jason Thomson was over the moon with the event, saying that the money raised is above expectation.

“The whole thing was a great success. It ran like clockwork,” he said.

“The feedback we have had from the public, our carnival partners and the volunteers who helped out has been exceptional. The community has taken it on board and embraced it and helped to make it a great success.”

From the opening night on Friday July 1 right through to the Final Night Party Saturday (July 9), the events were well attended, helping the organisers to break even by the Thursday.

“For me personally there are two or three things which stand out,” said Mr Thomson.

“Sorting out the insurance so that we could double the number of vehicles which could take part in the procession is one, and it was an amazing day itself.

“Bringing back the Bed Race was a great success and so much fun. We are now looking into the idea of making it an annual event.

“All the events were special, but the final party night on Saturday was pumping. The atmosphere was buzzing and it was a great send off. It was a truly memorable event.”

An incredible amount of work went into organising and running the spectacle, and Mr Thomson added: “A massive thank you to our carnival partners, without them we would not have been able to get it off the ground.

“Also thanks to the carnival committee, Ladies Circle and other Tablers, and the many volunteers who supported us – they make the event work.

“And thanks to the community for supporting us.

“We hope to put on a similar event in three years time.”