The club says carnival in the western country is becoming more and more popular

Carnival clubs say their popularity is growing again after the pandemic and lockdown “claimed many clubs.”

Ilminster-based Gemini Carnival Club said they are an important way of bringing the community together, even outside Somerset’s famous carnival season.

Many cultural events suffered after the closure, but the carnival tradition is said to be slowly recovering.

“We are always looking for new members, but the popularity has increased which is really positive,” said Liz Toms, club president.

Carnival circuits in the western country are an annual celebration, usually centered around a bonfire evening, dating back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

Carnival clubs across the region produce parade trolleys throughout the year, some of which are elaborate and cost thousands of pounds to build.

Bridgwater is home to the oldest carnival in Great Britain, which is also one of the largest illuminated processions in Europe.

Organizers estimate that Bridgwater alone contributes around £4m to the local economy.

“It keeps the city alive,” said Paul Savage, the carnival’s emcee.

“I was born and raised here myself, there are many families here who have been involved in the carnival for several years and their children and all their children are involved in it,” he added.

Carnival processions start in September and last until Bonfire Night on November 5.

James Venning, of the Ramblers Carnival Club, who are the current Bridgwater Carnival champions, said the win was a “big deal” for them.

“We are really pleased with our participation this year, we are building a giant pinball machine and it has been a really busy 12 months of planning and finalizing the final details,” he added.

Carnival clubs also conduct other social activities such as music quizzes and afternoon teas to raise money but also to bring the community together.

“Our monthly breakfasts are always very popular. We sell about 70-100 breakfasts a month and their popularity is growing,” Ms. Toms said.

– He’s trying to unite the local community.

BBC Radio Somerset presenter Andy Bennett has been part of the county’s carnival tradition for almost 30 years.

“The excitement of Carnival is like the buzz throughout the county at this time of year. I have been doing this for almost 30 years and I am still amazed by the commitment and dedication this hobby requires.

“The fact that it still excites me after all this time shows what a big deal the November carnivals are to so many people in Somerset.”

Dave Jennings, cart captain for the Griffens’ Carnival Club, said it takes a lot of effort to keep the carnival going.

“Every year, the costs of materials and lighting increase, so we all have to strive to stay one step ahead of the competition. Over the last few weeks, like all clubs, we’ve been sleeping late at night,” Jennings said.

“Clubs always work until the very end, there is always something to do.”

Ms Toms added that things were “gradually recovering” after Covid took its toll on many clubs.

“We didn’t have any carnivals, everything had to end,” she said.

“It took immersion.

“It’s a huge commitment if you want it, but we also welcome members who want to help on an ad hoc basis.”

It was also a good opportunity to “learn new skills” such as painting and woodworking, “but in a social environment without pressure,” she added.

“The most important thing is that it’s fun. Everyone likes it.”