Village life page
Carnival Gallery 2006

Early morning on the carnival field – time to set up!

The contents of the Craft & Produce tent were a closely guarded secret.

A sneak preview revealed a hotly contested “biggest marrow” competition.

Stall holders arrived early to set out their wares.

Tiger was prepared to lay down his life to stop the school being invaded.

The 1460 Squadron Marching Band assembled in bright sunshine…

…but minutes later were marching in the rain.

Nobody was put off by the weather and the parade came over Jeffs Bridge.

Despite the lack of floats it was still quite a sight.

Clowning around – Bim Bom & Coco
(aka John Plunkett & Neil Smith).

The procession arrived at the carnival field and were greeted by the Carnival Chair, Claire Bryant.

Helmdon’s oldest male resident and carnival stalwart, Mr Harold Seckington with daughter Pat.

Harold opened the carnival in this his 24th and last year on the carnival committee.

The incredible and beautiful owls.

Are you a man or a mouse? Better to be a man with this hunter around!

Stalls were busy right from the start.

Mr Punch didn’t look too happy.

But Judy soon had everyone laughing and cheering.

Pony rides are an enduring favourite.

Boys toys – these remote control vehicles were very popular with boys of all ages!

The paramedics were amused by this lady’s “healing hands” attempt.

Grinding on – the organ music provided a very traditional atmosphere.

The refreshment areas were packed throughout the day.

In the Craft & Produce tent there were plenty of classes to enter for all age groups.

There was needlework, pottery and lots of other art on display.

There are UK Champion sponge makers in
Helmdon so the competition was stiff!

The floral displays were particularly good this year.

It’s been one of the best years for ages for plums.

The “plate of mixed fruit” entries looked delicious.

The fruit and vegetables provided a really colourful display.

The “paint a clown” class produced some interesting entries!

“A box of mixed veg”

It was declared a “no contest” in the “three courgettes” class.

Simon Storer is unrivalled in vegetable production; onions…

…runner beans, you name it, he can grow it.

Entries in the “five white potatoes” class.

“Best garden” had been judged in advance, with photos of some of the better entries being displayed.

Children at Helmdon School were invited to design the cover of the carnival programme.

The Icarus falconry display was one of this year’s highlights.

The 2nd Helmdon Dog Show built on the success of the previous year.

There were a record number of entries.

There were novelty classes such as
“Waggiest Tail” and “Best 6 legs”.

There were lots of goodies on sale at the Country Deli.

The ambulance service were on hand.

There was traditional fairground fun and games…

…as well as the more modern inflatable attractions…

…and new things like this “Cresta Run”.

The award-winning Riverside Reflections
Dance Troop got everyone jumping.

The Icarus display team kept the crowd spellbound.

And some were even allowed to get close up and personal.
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Researched and written by Helmdon Local History Group volunteers. We do our best, but we can sometimes get things wrong. Corrections and additions are welcome.