A RALLYING call has been made for those who want to save Stourport Carnival as former organisers say it’s not too late to stop the event’s centuary-long run ending.
Stourport Carnival Society, which organises the event, held its annual general meeting on Monday evening, where it was agreed the group would be dissolved.
But the news has been met with sadness on social media, with many feeling that something had to be done to save the carnival.
Last year’s carnival, which marked the 100th anniversary of the event, saw thousands attend as guests were treated to two river parades, a fun-filled land parade, live entertainment and a firework display.
In the original statement, a spokesperson for the Stourport Carnival Society said: “We celebrated our 100th year in 2025, and at the annual general meeting, we reflected on our successes and contributions to our lovely town of Stourport-on-Severn.
“Unfortunately, due to a lack of nominations to fulfil the key roles needed to keep the society running, a majority voted to dissolve Stourport Carnival Society.
“Goodbye from Stourport Carnival Society, we thank you for all your support over the years.”
Carnival regulars took to Facebook to express their sadness at the news of the closure.
One said: “This is sad news for Stourport; these events take a lot of planning and effort, though.”
Another said that should the carnival not return, it would be a huge nail in the coffin for Stourport.
Following this, a second statement was posted on the Stourport Carnival Facebook page.
It read: “It seems people are passionate about Stourport Carnival, which is amazing – this isn’t news to us.
”Stourport Carnival is a fantastic community event. Something we’ve been proud to say we’ve organised for our town.
“Struggling to find volunteers is not just a problem we face – many local groups have the exact same issue.
“If people genuinely want to help and offer their time and support, it’s not too late.
“Whilst Stourport Carnival Society is no longer in existence, there are some committee members who would like to set up a new group to work to keep Stourport Carnival going.”
The Stourport Carnival has typically taken place on the first Saturday of September each year.
Every year, thousands of people line the streets of Stourport-on-Severn to watch the parade and soak up the carnival spirit.
The popular extravaganza’s land parade typically features floats, marching bands, small vehicles and walking entries.
Archived footage shows that in 1956, British boxing hero Freddie Mills, who once fought for the world light heavyweight title, attended the event and crowned that year’s Carnival Queen.
Email [email protected] if you are interested in saving the Carnival.
