RINGWOOD Carnival returned with a bang this afternoon as the popular one-day event returned for the first time since the pandemic.
Thousands of people lined the streets of the historic market town to witness the procession – complete with dancers, drummers and even Del Boy.
The event returned at 2pm, when the crowds clapped for a minute and cheered for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to remember and thank her for her service to the nation.
Organizers made the decision to go ahead with the event on Saturday September 17 following the Queen’s death last week after liaising with New Forest District Council and checking government advice.
Ringwood Carnival 2022
First, with a rumble in the distance, there was the roar of motorbikes as the procession made its way towards Christchurch Road, High Street and Market Place.
Cheerleaders, trucks, bagpipers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Only Fools and Horses, marching bands, tractors and a boxing chicken all took part in the show as thousands along the route smiled with joy.
Some groups, including schools and marching bands, walk with collection boxes for people to donate money.
Ringwood Carnival 2022
Carnival chairman Ben Salsbury said: “Today has been an absolutely fantastic day. There was a really good community spirit here today, coming back from two years away due to the pandemic.
“We’re hoping to raise a lot of money for various causes and, of course, we’re here to celebrate the Queen’s life.”
Event organizer Alix Gardner added: “We’ve had great weather this year and it’s fantastic to be back after two years away.
Ringwood Carnival 2022
“Everyone has clearly enjoyed themselves: people are smiling and looking so happy, and when everyone was clapping for the Queen it was so lovely.
“Ringwood Carnival is always popular, I heard about 10,000 people came through Ringwood during the event.”
An evening parade will take place with an illuminated procession starting at 7.15pm, ending with a fireworks display at 9.30pm to end the day with a bang.
Organizers from the Ringwood Carnival Society also organized a host of activities, competitions, exhibitions, entertainment, stalls and field walks at this year’s extravaganza.
