Trowbridge Carnival future in the balance as chair steps down

Committee member Andy Baker has pleaded for help and support following the decision of Trowbridge Carnival Committee chair Maryrose Mantle to step down at their annual general meeting on Wednesday, January 10.

Maryrose Mantle, the Trowbridge Carnival Committee chair, stepped down earlier this month. Photo Trevor Porter 69369-22 (Image: Trevor Porter)

In an open letter to the Trowbridge community, he said: “It is now make or break. We are at a pivotal moment for our beloved Trowbridge Carnival.

“The success and continuity of this cherished tradition depend on the active involvement of our community members. As we face a shortage of committee members this year, I earnestly plead for your help.

“Your commitment, even in the smallest capacity, can make a significant difference. Whether you have organisational skills, creative talents, or just a passion for community events, we need you. Without additional support, there's a real risk that Trowbridge Carnival may not be able to continue.

“Please consider joining our committee, contributing your time and enthusiasm to ensure the success of this annual celebration. Together, we can preserve the spirit of Trowbridge Carnival and create lasting memories for generations to come.

“Your involvement is not just a request; it's a plea to safeguard the heart and soul of our community. Let's come together and make a difference. Join us in ensuring that Trowbridge Carnival remains a vibrant tradition we can all be proud of.”

Mr Baker says the existing six-strong committee urgently needs a further ten potential volunteers to step forward and help organise the carnival, which originally began life as the Trowbridge Hospital Carnival and was then taken over by the town.

One of the huge floats taking part in the 2023 Trowbridge Carnival procession. Photo: Trevor Porter 70300-20 (Image: Trevor Porter 70300-20)

The annual Trowbridge Carnival procession in October attracts several large floats from the Wessex Carnival Circuit, and thousands of spectators line the town centre streets to watch it go by.

It costs more than £6,000 a year to run, with events such as quiz and bingo nights, the soap box derby Castle Street in June and the country fair in Trowbridge town park in September helping to raise funds for the procession.

Wendy Self, manager of the Lark Rise Farm in Trowbridge with donkeys Petals and Maddie, takes part in the Country Fair at Trowbridge Town Park, to help raise funds for the annual carnival. Photo: Trevor Porter 69936-11 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Mr Baker is appealing for potential volunteers to attend the committee’s final ‘make or break’ meeting at the Wesley Road Club on Wednesday, February 21 at 7pm.

The existing committee members have agreed that if they can’t or don’t attract new committee members at that meeting, the committee will disband and cancel this year’s events.

Mr Baker added: “The need for additional committee members for Trowbridge Carnival is undeniably crucial, as their involvement is pivotal in ensuring the very existence of this cherished event.

“Without a sufficient number of dedicated individuals stepping forward to join the committee this year, the future of Trowbridge Carnival hangs in the balance.

“Committee members play a central role in the planning, coordination, and execution of the carnival. Their collective efforts govern everything from securing permits and managing finances to orchestrating entertainment and overseeing safety protocols.

“More significantly, if we don't rally additional committee members this year, there is a real and imminent threat that Trowbridge Carnival may cease to exist. The continuity of this longstanding tradition hinges on the willingness of community members to step up and ensure its sustainability.

“The call for new committee members is not merely an invitation; it's a plea to safeguard the legacy and vibrancy of Trowbridge Carnival.

“Let us rally together, preserve our cultural heritage, and guarantee the continuation of this vibrant celebration for years to come. Your involvement is the key to sustaining the heartbeat of Trowbridge.”