Only three months after celebrating its 40th anniversary, Whaley Bridge’s Rose Queen Festival has sent out an SOS to local people: Come forward as a volunteer or the carnival will be over.
Tim Mourne, chair of the organising committee, says: “We desperately need new committee members and volunteers to help next year’s carnival, otherwise this long established event, part of Whaley Bridge life, will not carry on.”
Tim has invited anyone to an open meeting in Whaley Bridge Bowling Club at 7.30pm on Thursday 15 October to discuss the future of the carnival. To help the conversation flow, the Bowling Club is providing a free glass of wine to all.
Tim adds: “The meeting will help determine whether it will be viable or not to put on a carnival in 2016 as bookings and arrangements must start before Christmas.
“The Whaley Bridge Rose Queen Festival has supported local youth groups and organisations for over 40 years. The committee needs a boost of younger, enthusiastic members with new ideas and energy to move forward for future years. Some of our longest serving members are looking to retire, but are willing to pass on their knowledge and continue to offer support and guidance to keep the event running smoothly.”
Civic leaders with Rose Queen chairman Tim Mourne, standing, right, and young royals at 2015 carnival
The carnival in June brought out some of the biggest crowds in recent years. The procession was supported by floats from local schools, churches and groups. Royalty from neighbouring communities visited in the annual show of support and to help keep going a High Peak tradition of village and small town festivals.
More information on whaleyrosequeen.co.uk
Heart of the community: great support for the Rose Queen Carnival on the streets in June