New Trowbridge Carnival cup in tribute to town stalwart

Mrs Beresford, 82, who died in September last year following a short illness, played an active part in the community, serving with the Guides Association, volunteering at Trowbridge Museum and collecting for several charities.

She was also a regular in Trowbridge Carnival with her sister Sally Taylor, as well as the town’s twinning associations and horticultural society.

Mrs Beresford’s daughter Rachel suggested the idea of donating a trophy in her memory to the carnival. The new award will be called The Spirit of Trowbridge Carnival.

Maryrose Mantle, chairman of Trowbridge Carnival committee, said: “She was a stalwart in the town and did so much for the town and the carnival. She and her sister were in the carnival every year.

“They never missed it and their costumes were always brilliant. The award is the Spirit of Trowbridge Carnival as it is what Averil was and it is appropriate that we pay tribute.

“This year it’s down to Averil’s family to select a winner and present them with the cup for what they think represents Trowbridge and the carnival spirit. We have entries from local individuals and groups, as well as groups from further afield.

“She always supported all of the carnival events in the lead up and gave her ideas to the committee, as well as taking part, so it is lovely we can recognise that with this award.”

The carnival on October 18, will be preceded by events such as the quiz night on September 22 at the Polish Club in Waterworks Road and a promotion day on October 4 in Fore Street.

Mrs Taylor, Averil’s sister, said: “Rachel wanted to give a cup to the carnival in Averil’s memory as we have been doing the carnival in Trowbridge for nearly 30 years.

“It will be nice to have this award as a tribute to her. It’s difficult to say what the award will be for until we see it on the day, but it will be largely about the effort and detail they put in.”