CLACTON Carnival is back in full force this weekend for the first time since before the pandemic – and will celebrate 100 years since its first street procession.
The town’s first procession took place in 1922 after it was organized by Clacton Pier owner Ernest Kingsman and local businessman Douglas Lewellen to help raise money for Clacton Hospital.
Events included swimming races, a greasy pole walk and a masquerade ball, while the procession included cars and bicycles decorated with children dressed as nursery rhyme characters.
To mark the centenary, Clacton Carnival Association has decided that the theme of this year’s carnival will also be “children’s rhyme” – and the money raised will be donated to Clacton Hospital among other charities.
Paul Townend, chairman of the carnival, added: “We are looking forward to celebrating our 100th procession and welcoming people back to the carnival this year.
“So many charities and community groups have been unable to fundraise and hold events due to Covid, so we’re hoping for a big year of donations to help them.”
The carnival kicks off with a day of fun at Clacton Pier on Friday before the grand street procession at 6pm on Saturday.
Clacton’s 100th procession will travel along the seafront from West Road car park to Victoria Road.
Clacton Pier owner Billy Ball added: “The town’s carnival actually started on the pier in 1922 when the Kingsman family owned it, so it’s only right that we get involved, especially with this special 100-year milestone .”
The free Sunday weekend is being held at a new location along Greensward on August 14.
There will be live entertainment throughout the day, along with a pet show and fancy dress competition.
Mr Townend added: “There will be everything you could want to keep the family entertained and entry is free, so please come and spend a day in Clacton.”
Adventure Golf at the Greensward Cafe will return on Tuesday 16 August, along with the popular beer dig and egg toss competition on Wednesday 17 August, the Railway Club Quiz Night on Friday 19 August and the Half Marathon 10 thousand and fun. takes place on Sunday 21 August.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so at all events where there will be collection buckets or can do so online at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/clactoncarnival2022.
To learn more about the events, go to cactoncarnival.org for more information.
