THE MP for Bridgwater discussed the history of Bridgwater Carnival at a recent event.

During Ashley Fox's visit to the Bridgwater Carnival Centre, he met with Dave Croker, president of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, and Dave Creedy, chairman.

Bridgwater Carnival is on Saturday, November 2, 2024, with the procession scheduled to start at 6pm.

The Bridgwater Carnival is a well-known event in Somerset county that typically attracts crowds of 150,000 people. 

The carnival's main attraction is the procession, which can take more than two hours to pass a given point on its route through the town centre. 

The day's festivities conclude with a 'squibbing display' on Bridgwater High Street, where around 200 squibs are thrown into the air at the same time.

Dave Creedy said: “It was a pleasure to meet Ashley to explain a little about the history of our carnival and what it means to so many 'Carnivalites' within our town.

"To see his genuine interest and enthusiasm to support the event, and to also continue the long-standing tradition of our sitting MP to take part in the 'Squibbing display' on carnival day.”

Ashley expressed his strong support for the event and offered to assist in any way possible to ensure the success of this year’s carnival.

He emphasised the importance of the carnival to the local community, not only as a longstanding tradition but also as a significant boost to the town’s economy.

"I am incredibly proud of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival and all it represents," Ashley said.

"This event is a vital part of our town’s cultural heritage, and I am committed to supporting it in any way I can.

"The dedication and hard work of everyone involved in the carnival are truly inspiring and I look forward to being part of the celebrations, particularly the unique and thrilling tradition of squibbing."