A BRAND new president of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee has been elected.

Malcolm Cattle, a well known carnival fan who lives in Wembdon, took over the position at the committee’s annual general meeting.

He replaces the town’s first female carnival president, Rita Jones, stepped down after three years.

Malcolm, who is married to Terry and has two children and two grandchildren, has been involved with carnival for 53 years.

He joined Gremlins Carnival Club when he was15 years old, and became the club’s gangs and features representative in 1966.

This year sees Malcolm celebrating 50 years of being a part of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee.

He has held a number of positions and roles including chairman, procession officer and life member of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee, plus chairman, president and life member of the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnivals Association.

He is also a vice president of Wills Carnival Club.

Malcolm said: "Rita is a wonderful ambassador for everything our carnival stands for, and on behalf of everybody associated with Bridgwater Carnival.

"I would like to thank her for all she has done over the last three years.

"I have a huge challenge in following in her footsteps."