THE Woodley Carnival was given a right royal launch this week.
The biggest event in the town’s calendar kicked off with the coronation of this year’s Carnival Queen.
The Oakwood Centre was packed to watch Summer Close, 10, awarded the honour with Alyssa Coomber, 8, and Destiny Strotten, 7, named as her Princesses.
The three girls will lead the procession around Woodley at this year’s fun packed family carnival on Saturday, June 9. It starts an hour earlier than usual at 11am with a host of events, stalls, concerts, childrens’ specials and much more before ending with a spectacular fireworks display 12 hours later.
Peter Jacobs, chair of the organising committee said the selection of the Queen and Princesses coronations was the perfect start for Woodley’s most spectacular community event.
“This year the competition was open to boys and girls that either live or go to school in Woodley. Despite several male entries on the night there were no shows and the spoils went to the girls,” he said.
“It was a tough decision for the judges and their final decision was based on the girls’ personality and ability to represent the community carnival both on carnival day as well as the run up to carnival and beyond for the rest of the year.”
The theme for this year’s event is Heroes and Villains and there will be special appearances throughout the day from Darth Vader and his stormtroopers, Greedo, Kylo and Judge Dredd.
“Our main arena is positively bursting with activity this year, with local groups providing a range of singing, dancing and acrobatic displays,” added Mr Jacobs, chair of the organising committee.
“There will be lots of exciting competitions including a classic car show, dog show and flower show all taking place during the afternoon.
“We also have some fantastic displays from local enthusiast of model railways, traction engines, caged birds and even some exciting exotic animals.
“One of the many highlights
is a 1966 Batmobile which has appeared all over the world, including with the original Batman, Adam West.
“There’s also the chance to meet some of our own local superheroes with displays from the fire, police and ambulance service. In the evening, people can bring a picnic to enjoy in the park while enjoying live music before a spectacular fireworks display brings the day to a close.”
Four local charities will benefit from the carnival including, Woodley Foodbank, Woodley First Responders, The Me2 Club and the charity, Just Around The Corner.
Full details of the Woodley Carnival including ticket prices are available at www.woodleycarnival.org.uk
