Thousands will be partying at the biggest carnival in Erewash this weekend...and they can expect it to be hot!
Temperatures are forecast to top 30°C on Saturday – sparking alerts to revellers to guard against the summer sun.
The historic Long Eaton Carnival, which was first held in 1931, kicks off on the evening of Friday 20th June) with live music in the town’s West Park from 7pm.
On Saturday a grand parade will set out from the park at 11am to wind its way through town before returning two hours later. The theme for this year’s spectacle of floats is board games.
Mayor of Erewash Cllr Harry Atkinson will be at the park when the cavalcade begins. The carnival weekend, which includes a funfair, continues on Sunday with a car boot sale.
The volunteers who raise money for the event say it costs £15,000 to stage. It was meant to include a dog show – but because of the sizzling weather this has been cancelled.
Organisers are urging crowds to beware of the heat, especially on Saturday. An official confirmed: “It’s going to be hot. Please look after yourselves, dress accordingly, plenty of liquids, hat, sunscreen, stand in the shade.”
Three local youngsters will act as “carnival royalty” this year. Myla, aged 12, is being honoured for good deeds including fundraising for Sawley Rotary Club and helping her mum as a Salvation Army volunteer.
Fellow carnival princess Zara is described as “a kind and courageous little girl” who uses her own pocket money to help the homeless.
Ben, who is “carnival prince”, launched his own business cleaning cemetery headstones after visiting his gran’s grave. He uses money from the venture to back a charity that provides headstones for families who have lost a child.
Erewash Borough Council Deputy Leader Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, paid tribute to the hard work of all the fundraisers and volunteers who keep the carnival going.
She said: “I’m pleased that Myla, Zara and Ben have agreed to be Carnival Royalty for this year’s event. They are truly deserving, working so hard for the community. I hope they enjoy the experience and that everyone has a great time over the carnival weekend.”
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