HOPES stir that Stourport Carnival might still have a future after the town council stepped in to try and save the much-loved event.
The Stourport Carnival Society, which has run the 100-year-old event, dissolved due to a lack of volunteers last month, casting doubt on the future of the carnival.
The news sparked an outcry on social media, with people seeking ways to save the carnival.
Stourport Town Council considered whether it could become more involved in organising the annual carnival, with a view to preventing the loss of the much-loved event.
At a meeting earlier this month, councillors decided that the authority should take on the responsibility of organising the carnival and explore all available options for its delivery.
The authority is now on the lookout for volunteers to come forward and help get trhe event back on its feet.
A spokesperson for the council said: “It was recognised by the town council that volunteers will be essential to ensure that Stourport Carnival can be delivered safely and successfully.
“Further updates will be shared in due course.
“For those who’ve already put their hand up to help through previous posts shared on social media, thank you.
“Please sit tight for now, as more information will be shared shortly.
“Thank you to everyone for your continued support of the carnival and our community events more widely.”
People have taken to social media to react to the news.
One carnival lover said: “This is good news, I’m so glad Stourport Town Council is taking on the responsibility of organising the Carnival.
“It’s great to see the community coming together to keep this beloved event alive for years to come.”
The Stourport Carnival was first held in 1925 and has typically taken place on the first Saturday of September each year.
The popular extravaganza’s land parade typically features floats, marching bands, small vehicles and walking entries.
The event also typically features live entertainment and a fireworks display.
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.
Visit stourporttowncouncil.gov.uk/tourism-and-events/events/volunteering/? for more information and to volunteer.
