AS the carnival parade season turns to Ulverston and Walney this weekend we take a look at the Barracudas whose musicians and elaborate costumes became a notable feature at street events throughout the region.

It began in 1989 from a base in Storey Square, Barrow, where a small group of enthusiasts with minimal resources created costumes for 100 people.

That June, members of the Barracudas took part in carnivals at Dalton, Askam and Barrow.

In the following years the group’s unique brand of choreography, music and costumes went on to represent Barrow at events such as London’s Notting Hill Carnival, the Commonwealth Games in Manchester and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee in London.

The Mail, on July 19 in 1990, noted: “Barrow street band the Barracudas has been chosen to top the bill in a television series in young people in the arts.

“Granada Television has organised a week-long festival to celebrate the best work in all fields of art and entertainment by young people in the North West, aged 15 to 25.”

It was called Celebration 1525 and the acts were chosen by Colin Bell after a research team saw the Barracudas in action at Dalton carnival.

In September 1991 mayor of Barrow, Rose Hamezeian, was able to congratulate the Barracudas after lifting four trophies in the Kendal Torchlight Procession.

The search for new members saw open days, such as one held in Barrow, in 1995.

The Mail, on May 1, noted: “A fanfare of trumpets welcomed the summer in style when the Barracudas Caribbean carnival band held an open day at Forum 28.

“The group held dancing and music sessions and also showed videos of past performances.”

Band director Julie Hammerton said: “We had a very successful afternoon and we’ve got lots of new recruits.”

The Mail, on August 29 in 1991, noted that the Barracudas had been chosen to take the lead in a parade of the Northern branch of the national Womad festival of world music and dance held at Morecambe.