Walney Carnival is hailed as success

Last updated 09:32, Friday, 08 August 2008

WALNEY Carnival organisers succeeded in attracting the crowds, despite the rain.

CARNIVAL QUEEN: Walney Carnival Queen Sapphire Waldken with her Ladies in Waiting REF: 0439142

The parade, organised by North Walney Tenants’ and Residents’ Association,featured 79 entries from dance troops, schools and organisations – all determined to carry on regardless.

Walney Carnival Queen Sapphire Walkden braved the weather with her ladies in waiting, and spectators were out in force to watch the floats pass through the streets.

Bad weather has unfortunately played a part in many of this year’s carnivals, but luckily for the residents of Walney, all participants decided the show must go on.

In the afternoon the crowds moved to North Walney Primary School, where they were greeted by a variety of stalls and play areas. Refreshments were available to those who had braved the wet conditions, and the carnival also included a dramatic car crash reconstruction.

Unfortunately the dance competition was rained off so judging will take place at Allithwaite carnival on Saturday.

Walney School was voted best float.

Carnival committee member Anita Husband said: “We can’t express how grateful we are to those who turned out to support the carnival.

“The public were marvellous along the route.

“There were little ones stood out in the rain.

“It makes you very proud.

“But we’re tough on Walney.

“Apart from the rain it was a lovely day.”

The carnival brought in £1,500 profit for charities and organisations on the island.