Organisers dubbed a local village carnival the ‘best in years,’ following large crowds, and success last weekend.

Mere Carnival, which took place in Mere last weekend, witnessed the two things every event wants: dry weather, and large crowds.

Although organisers lamented the loss of a funfair this year, due to the lack of a venue, festivities included a grand procession, raffles, and lots of food and drink.

Speaking to the Journal, Chairman Mel Wilkinson said, “Please accept my thanks, everyone, that made Carnival 2024 the best in a number of years.”

The carnival involved a lot of the local community, and drew large crowds (Image: Mere Carnival) The village carnival started at 3:30pm, but the grand procession began at 7:30pm. Involving the Police, and Fire Service, it wound from White Road before finishing near The Quarry Industrial Estate.

There was also a ‘mega draw’ raffle, with a £1000 pot prize.

Carnival Secretary Jane Purdue also spoke to the Journal, and said: “We were not only blessed with sunshine, but with talented live music in the daytime, and when the crowds lined the streets, a fantastic procession.”

Local businesses were also part of the carnival. The mega draw took place on Sunday at The Butt of Sherry; The Walnut Inn provided a mobile bar in The Square; and The George had live music.