Carnival drew the crowds for celebration of Jubilee (From Evesham Journal)

Carnival drew the crowds for celebration of Jubilee

12:00pm Thursday 7th June 2012 in Pershore

JUBILEE fever was high at Pershore Carnival as hundreds turned out for an event which was said to be the best for years.

After the torrential rain of the previous day, the sun came out for this year’s special Diamond Jubilee-themed event which had more than 20 motorised floats decked out with bunting.

Leading the procession from Pershore Football Club was Kieran Jeavons holding a replica Olympic torch followed by Pershore retained firefighters and bagpipers.

The carnival king and queen, 11-year-old Tyler Blight and 12-year-old Ellie Smith, waved to the crowds as they made their way up to Abbey Park, where the celebrations continued with musical entertainment and a fairground.

Children from Holy Redeemer Catholic Primary School sang rousing choruses of the National Anthem and Rule Britannia as they waved flags in front of the crowds lining the streets.

Tom Stewart, aged 45, of Great Comberton, was watching his son in the procession.

He said: “It’s been better than in previous years.

There’s a lot more floats. A lot of people are watching.”

Jayne Bailey, 50, of Smiths Way, was watching the procession with four generations of her family who had come especially to watch.

She said: “It’s a lot better than in previous years. I don’t know if it’s a jubilee thing but more people have entered it. It’s nice to see kids on the floats. It’s great.

There’s a lot of people out – lots of local people. It’s a good family event.”

Six-year-old Jonty Smith, who has cerebral palsy, took part in the procession in his fire engine made by his uncle Jonathan Keen. Mum Jane Smith said: “He loved it – he’s living his dream because he wants to be a fireman.

They’ve made a really big effort this year. I’ve been before when there’s only been three floats.”

Celebrations in Abbey Park continued into the evening with music and a spectacular firework display.