ORGANISERS of Winterbourne Down Village Carnival have revealed the ‘royalty’ who will lead the parade through the village this year.
Alice Edwards and Cameron Yuille will be the Carnival Queen and King, and will greet the crowds on Monday May 5 along with their attendants Zara Van Jeperen, Flora Powell, Sonny Parker and Devon Maslen and stirring music from the Bristol Pipers.
The village is set to come alive with colour, music, and community spirit over the May Day bank holiday.
The carnival procession on Monday May 5 sets off from between 10am and 10.15am, heading from the Bradley Avenue shops to Bethesda Methodist Church in Down Road, where the main entertainments will take place.
This year’s carnival theme is Storybook Nostalgia, and people are being invited to dress as their favourite childhood book characters to bring classic tales to life.
Carnival committee spokesperson Kathryn Hopes said: “Adding a special touch to the occasion, a remarkable family supported by the charity Young Lives vs Cancer will also play a prominent role at the front of the parade, highlighting the event’s spirit of community and compassion.
“Following the procession, the heart of Winterbourne Down will be transformed into a vibrant hub of activity.
“Visitors can enjoy live music, browse a wide variety of stalls, feast on a great selection of food offerings and indulge in the classic treat of cream teas.
“For the young (and the young at heart), fairground rides will provide thrills and excitement throughout the day.”
First ever dog show for carnival
This year there will also be a dog show from 12.30pm, held outside on the ‘tennis courts’ behind All Saints Church Hall.
Organisers have suggested that visitors use the Winterbourne Academy Sports Village in Flaxpits Lane for parking, a short walk from the start of the parade.
People arriving from Hambrook or Frenchay can park on the common and walk up Mill Steps.
Parking restrictions in the village, especially on Harcombe Hill and Down Road from the Badminton Road direction, have been extended.
Visitors are being reminded to bring cash to but from some of the smaller stalls, which don’t take card payments.
Kathryn added: “This year’s carnival promises a wonderful day out for families, friends, and visitors from near and far — a true celebration of local spirit, generosity, and May Day traditions.”
For more details on the carnival visit www.winterbournedowncarnival.co.uk or the carnival Facebook page.
Picture: Winterbourne Down Village Carnival’s Queen and King are Alice Edwards and Cameron Yuille, pictured with attendants Zara Van Jeperen, Flora Powell, Sonny Parker and Devon Maslen ahead of their big day on May 5.