WINTERBOURNE Down Village Carnival has announced this year’s royal special guests.
Carnival King Finn Morrison, aged eight, who attends Hambrook Primary School, and Queen Harper Jones, ten, a St Michael’s Primary School pupil, will preside over events tomorrow, joined by attendants Amira Falango, Stella Parker, Fredrick Cottell, and Riley Blackburn.
Organisers are already gearing up for a “bumper footfall” year, with crowds expected to fill the streets from early morning on carnival day, Monday May 4, when the procession starts from Bradley Avenue shops at 10am.
The organising committee has announced some new arrangements to help the procession and events run smoothly, including extended parking restrictions along Harcombe Hill and Down Road from the Badminton Road approach.
Extra parking has been secured at Winterbourne Academy’s sports centre on Flaxpits Lane, a seven-minute walk to Bradley Avenue.
Visitors approaching from the Hambrook or Frenchay direction are encouraged to park on the Common and make their way up Mill Steps.
Kathryn Hopes from the carnival committee said: “The aim is to prioritise pedestrian safety while maintaining a steady flow of traffic as visitors arrive.”
Celebrating Sir David Attenborough
This year’s carnival is dedicated to celebrating the centenary of naturalist and national treasure Sir David Attenborough, whose 100th birthday falls four days after the parade.
Kathryn said: “This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating 100 Years of Sir David Attenborough,’ invites participants to take inspiration from wildlife, nature, and the natural world.
“Children are especially encouraged to take part in the fancy dress, coming dressed as animals, explorers, environmental heroes, or anything inspired by Sir David Attenborough’s incredible legacy.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to spark creativity and celebrate our planet.”
Alongside the procession, dog show, live music and stalls, this year’s event will include a visit from Charlie Bear from the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, which is being supported by the carnival.
Recycling services on the carnival route are being prioritised so they are done before the procession starts and roads are closed, and more toilet facilities and dog water bowls are being made available throughout the village.
Visitors are being reminded to bring cash for the stalls.
More details are being shared on the carnival’s Facebook page and website.
Kathryn said: “Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, May Day Monday promises a day filled with colour, community spirit, and celebration.”