Return of Ringwood Carnival attracts bumper crowds
RINGWOOD carnival was hailed a “fantastic success” after the event returned for the first time since the pandemic forced its cancellation for the last two years.
Thousands of people turned out to watch the two parades – one in the daytime and a spectacular illuminated version during the evening.
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Before each one, a minute's silence was held to commemorate the death of the Queen.
All manner of floats took part in the parades along with steam engines, motorbikes, bicycles and horses. There was also an appearance by a tractor which towed a float full of live scarecrows.
Another highlight was the presence of the famous Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car which lit up for the evening parade.
There were several bands that kept the marching in time, including a steel band and a group of kilt-clad bagpipers.
Individual entrants included brave Alan Wiseman, who managed to go the whole way around the route on a bicycle weighed down by flags and photos of the Queen, paying tribute to her platinum jubilee.
Also entertaining the crowds were Disney princesses, Tinkerbell, Batman, cheerleaders and stilt walkers.
Carnival chair Ben Salsbury hailed the event a “fantastic success”, saying: “The turnout was massive. It really was the carnival coming back with a bang.
"The atmosphere was amazing. We had so many people taking part in the parade and thousands watching.
“It was really good fun and the carnival, I am happy to say, is now back to stay.”
All profits from the event will go to local charities.
People took to social media to praise the event, with one saying: “What a lovely procession! Glad to see the carnival back.”
Another said: “Brilliant procession, everyone must have worked so hard. Thoroughly enjoyed it all – thank you to everyone involved.”