A VILLAGE’s beloved carnival returns this summer after a long hiatus. But unlike many events slowly getting back into gear throughout Powys following Covid-19, Llangammarch Wells hasn’t celebrated its carnival for over two decades.

The pandemic saw events throughout Powys postponed en-masse when it hit in March 2020, many for two years, some for three. But there hasn’t been a carnival in Llangammarch since 2001.

That was the year foot and mouth outbreak swarmed the UK. The carnival fell by the wayside, until this year when a committed band of volunteers decided it was time to bring it back.

The carnival committee has been working diligently to revive the event since getting together last August – and they announced earlier this year that it will return, on Saturday, August 12.

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The idea has snowballed rapidly, with people from the village excited about the prospect and willing to pitch in. A few fundraising events have already been held and well-attended and the committee has even been inundated with assistance and pledges of support from surrounding communities like Garth and Llanwrtyd Wells. Local schoolchildren have designed a new carnival logo.

“This little group got together and said ‘wouldn’t it be a good idea to bring the carnival back’ and then Covid came along,” said a committee spokesperson.

“We resurrected the topic again last August and we’ve had some really good fundraising events since.

“People have been very supportive, from offering donations, to lending us marquees, while Helen Pritchard, from the Toyota Garage in Builth Wells, has allowed us to use the field for the day, which is a big thing that’s helped us, so a big thank you to her and everyone else that has helped us.

“The kids at Irfon Valley Primary School have designed a logo for the carnival. There have been so many helping hands from the local community and other shows.

“Garth Hall are lending us chairs and helped with the Hallowe’en fundraising event, and people from Llanwrtyd Carnival are offering their help and support. People have been so generous so far and think it’s nice to have something to do and to look forward to.”

The committee is chaired by Nic Jones, described as the prime mover behind the resurrection of the carnival. She is joined by Pam Hibbert (secretary), Jenny Aulsebrook (treasurer), Sue Broadhurst, Shelley Hughes, Kate Jones, Tricia Wargent, Sam Morgan and Charlie Evans.

They have set up a Facebook group, while a couple of fundraising events have already been held, including a successful race night in January – that raised £1,500 – while a bingo evening was held last weekend. The next event is a quiz night at Alexandra Hall on Friday, April 14.

Llangammarch Carnival returns on Saturday, August 12, to be held on Horace’s Field, behind Irfon House. To keep up to date with all the latest news and events ahead of the carnival, visit the Llangammarch Wells Carnival Facebook page.

 

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