Summer spirit in full swing at Carnival and Party in the Park

`MELKSHAM got into the summer spirit this month as the Carnival and Party in the Park went off with a bang over two jam-packed days of family fun.

The carnival and party in the park – two of the biggest events on the Melksham calendar – were both big hits and organisers  have applauded local people for making it a memorable week.

The high street was packed with people watching Melksham Carnival last Saturday, 23rd July, as a procession of nearly 30  groups paraded through the town centre.

Spokesperson Christine York told Melksham News, “We were delighted so many people turned out to watch the carnival; the people of Melksham once again completely lined the streets. It was an amazing sight to see and there was such a great atmosphere on the day! Thank you to everyone for your support and efforts to make it so special.”

The weekend before, on Saturday 19th, huge crowds enjoyed a busy day of live music, stunt shows and fairground games at the Party in the Park, which this year bumped up the festival atmosphere with a big stage and bigger bands.

Organiser Bruce Burry said, “This year’s Party went off without a hitch. Great music, great arena acts, great weather and a great crowd; we couldn’t have asked for more! Thank you Melksham people for your support and making this a day to remember.”

This summer saw the two events split after traditionally being held back-to-back on the same day. The division caused concern in the town, but both events were big successes.

The carnival for the first time held its own family fun day in the park before the procession.

Christine York said, “We will definitely be putting on the fun day next year; all the feedback has been very positive and the stallholders are keen to come back. Everyone loved the relaxed atmosphere.”

The procession then had 29 entries who paraded past hundreds of people in the town centre from 6pm.

The winners of the best entries were: Newble Pirates (Best Walking Group), 4 Star Dance (Best Performance Group),  Swordfish Swimming Club (Best Float), In2Dance (Royalty Choice).

Secretary Beth Dark said, “I’m over the moon at the support we had and the smiles and positive comments make all the hard work worth it!

“Please start getting organised now for your part in next year’s event. We have some pretty fierce talent in our town; let’s see what you can do!”

The Party in the Park held two main stages – the music stage and a performance arena – which hosted live bands and fire stunts, acrobatics, and dance displays spread over a ten-hour event.

Bruce Burry continued, “We hired a professional stage this year which not only looked good, but the sound was perfect. We also had more acts on a tighter schedule than before, and large crowds were treated to daredevil treats all afternoon in the arena.

“Our special guests, Dodgy, did not disappoint and gave us a professional, star quality approach, playing songs from past and present. The headliners T.Rextasy played all the 70s hits from Marc Bolan and T Rex. The crowds were in the mood and born to boogie! The band ended a great day, joined with a phenomenal firework display.

“Not sure how we’ll better it next year, but you can be sure we’ll try! All feedback is welcomed by emailing melkshamparty@fsmail.net ”