Congratulations to everyone involved with Trowbridge Carnival and with so many schools and organisations involved, it was good to feel that real community spirit. The procession moved quite slowly but this gave a great opportunity for the local floats and walking groups, including children and young people, spaced between the larger illuminated tableaux, to entertain the large crowds lining the route, adding to the enjoyment of the evening.

Something I felt missing, however, was a marching band at the head of the procession which would have made the carnival even better. This might be considered for next year.

We again watched from our ‘traditional’ spot in Union Street, which for me goes back many years, even before the war. In the early days, when the procession came down from The Halve it was led by a brass band with local dignitaries walking in front. The carnival queen in her carriage, and of course as now there was the fire brigade. This would now include our town crier. In those early days there was not the modern amplified music, but the sound of the bands as they marched through the town added to the great excitement and sense of anticipation of what was to follow.

When the procession eventually reached Manvers Street to again pass along Fore Street there were still floats coming up Wicker Hill, and some groups, with the collection van, would come round a second time!

Stanley H Jones, Horse Road, Hilperton Marsh.