CHARD CARNIVAL COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES 2025 GRANT WINNERS AMID CHALLENGES - ⭕
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
The Chard Carnival Committee held its annual presentation on Sunday, reflecting on the challenges of last year’s event while celebrating the recipients of this year’s grants.
Chard Carnival, the largest in South Somerset, continues to draw entries from across the region, including Devon and the County Circuit. However, concerns have arisen about whether this year’s carnival will go ahead due to a shortage of committee members and volunteers.
Despite facing setbacks - including delays of up to 40 minutes - the 2024 carnival was hailed as a success, featuring more live music and entertainment than ever before. Cllr Jason Baker, as chairman, acknowledged the difficulties but emphasised the importance of the event.
“Last year saw its challenges, but we must look at the bigger picture and how much the event is looked forward to each year by so many,” he said. “The size and success of Chard Carnival is mainly due to the hard work and dedication of the committee.”
Cllr Baker praised the committee’s efforts, noting that much of their work happens behind the scenes. “There is much that goes on behind the scenes that no one sees, and sometimes they have to work in difficult situations and deal with issues that don’t always receive favourable publicity,” he said. “Yet they continue to ensure that all of the events are safe and continue.”
Each year, the committee invites local groups to apply for grants to support their activities. This initiative depends on the success of the previous year’s fundraising efforts. Unfortunately, due to an incident at last year’s carnival, the collection totalled only £2,834 - about half the usual amount.
Despite this setback, the committee remained committed to giving back to the community. “This year we were overwhelmed with applications,” Cllr Baker said. “All are looked at by the whole Carnival Committee and the committee then decide who we can help, which is always a very difficult decision. We tend to try and prioritise those groups that have helped or taken part in the carnival.”
This year’s grants totalled £6,038.78, with £1,710 distributed as appearance money to clubs that participated in the carnival and an additional £4,328.78 awarded at the presentation.
The 2025 grant recipients included Chard Museum, Ilminster Majorettes, Zem Carnival Club, Chard Majorettes, Sid Vale Carnival Club, Merriott Majorettes, Chard Scouts, Otters Carnival Club, South Petherton Majorettes, A & A Carnival Club, Bubbles Carnival Club, Rubalo Carnival Club, TAPS, Leya Winter from Chard Rugby Club, Chard Girls Rugby Team, Crewkerne Scouts, CLOKS, and Harlequins Carnival Club.
Grants were also given from the Christmas Float collection to Chard Scouts, Chard Rugby Club, Chard Majorettes, Rubalo Carnival Club, and Zem Carnival Club for their fundraising efforts.
Committee member Zoe Penfold highlighted the impact of the Christmas Float, which is sponsored by The Phoenix Hotel and Chard CommuniTea Waffle House. “The Christmas Float is my favourite thing that we do as a committee,” she said. “It’s so rewarding and magical to see the faces of both the old and young as Father Christmas passes their door.”
Zak Williams also emphasised the importance of fundraising. “Collecting for the carnival allows us to give back to many local groups and charities,” he said, thanking those who contributed.
As the presentation wrapped up, Cllr Baker invited anyone interested in supporting the event to join the committee at its AGM, which will be held at Chard CommuniTea Waffle House on Sunday, 16th February at 7.00pm.
( Photo: Cllr Jason Baker 📸 )