The North Petherton Carnival 2023

Crowds had to wait for around 90-minutes for the start of the North Petherton Carnival this weekend, but despite the delay, it didn’t stop the fun. Thousands headed to the Somerset village on Saturday, November 11, for a display of lights, music, and dozens of carnival floats as well as an evening raising funds for charity.

The start of the procession was due to get underway at 7pm, however it didn’t get underway until around 8.30pm because of a gas leak. Carnival organisers were quick to inform the public that the event had not been cancelled during the delay, with some revellers saying they had been standing in the cold for more than four hours.

A spokesperson for the North Petherton Carnival said: “Our sincerest apologies to anyone that was disappointed tonight by the delayed start.

“It was due to a gas leak, which was beyond our control, and we couldn't start until we given the all clear and told it was safe.

“We hope you'll visit us next year if you weren't able to stay long enough to see it.”

The statement added: “North Petherton Carnival committee would like to than the public tonight for your patience and understand.

“Most of you by now will be aware there was a reported gas leak on the procession route. This was delt with by the fire service and we eventually got carnival running.

“Thank you to all clubs for bearing with us. You sure did put on a great show once you got moving.

“Finally, to all the officials who helped out tonight. Hope you all had an enjoyable carnival.”

First place went to Huckyduck CC with their Tableau Cart Open class with their festive December the 25th entry., and Ramblers CC's Trwalermen cart took gold in the Feature Cart Open Class. Wick CC won the Optional Feature Open Class with Queen Anne's Revent and Toppers CC's Moonshine entry placed top of the Feature Cart Local class, followed by Westonzoyland CC. The Comic Feature Cart class was won by Nunsford Nutters CC with their Plucking entry, and Hillview JCC with their Sweet Dreams cart which topped the Juvenile Cart class.

The remainder of the winners from North Petherton Carnival 2023 were: Groups of Masqueraders Adult: The Academy of Carnival - 'Miss Panto 2023'. Groups of Masqueraders Juvenile: Rhythm Fever CC - 'Day of the Dead', Groups of Masqueraders (3-7): A.B.C CC - 'We can, can U?'. Pairs: A and A CC - 'The Dragon'. Single Masquerader Adult: Jack's CC - 'Sambista'. Single Masquerader Juvenile: Little R - 'Festival of Little R'. Single or Pairs with Wheeled Props: Bubbles CC - 'Wild'.

Next year’s carnival is due to take place on November 9.