Aldbourne's 100th Carnival: "A true community event from start to finish."

Aldbourne is still recovering from its 100th Carnival – a very special Carnival – and they are still exchanging thanks for the village’s escape from the worst that August’s rain could have brought.

The Aldbourne Doggy Day and the Senior Citizens Tea Dance both took place on rainy days – but everyone was smiling throughout.

The Parade, Band Concert and Flag Lowering were all thankfully on fine evenings and the parade attracted a record number of floats and walking entries.

An evening of sophistication with Tom Bott’s High Society Orchestra – with fireworks soaring into a clear sky – was another highlight.

The organisers have asked for some loud ‘Thank yous’ especially to the Aldbourne Ranger Guides who helped throughout the festivities serving tea, cakes and buffet suppers.

The Heritage Evening with vintage films and photographs was a great success. Participants shared many memories including those of John Brown, now 90, who recalled winning first prize in the fancy dress as ‘John Bull’ in the 1928 carnival.

Absent friends were also remembered – including the late Fiona Cheney who played such a huge part in organising Carnival and was so looking forward to celebrating the 100th renewal of our village tradition.  And here are the views of one local resident, David Hunter:  “And so the end of another Carnival week. The Committee couldn’t have got it more spot on for this Centenary Carnival. There really was something to include absolutely everyone and it really does bring all of the different sections of the village together.”

“We should all be very proud to live in such a fabulous, beautiful and special village, surrounded by lovely and friendly people.”

“The Carnival Committee should be justly proud of their sterling, excellent and dedicated work as too should the yarn bombers – a wonderful and unexpected addition to a special celebration which surely brought a smile to us all.”