ONE of the most important low-carbon energy projects in the country is continuing its unique community partnership with the UK’s oldest carnival.

For the third successive year, Hinkley Point C has been confirmed as the main event sponsor for the annual Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, which this year takes place on Saturday, November 2.

The popular event is one of Europe’s largest illuminated carnivals and attracts tens of thousands of people into the historic market town on the first Saturday of every November.

The community spirited event is organised by volunteers, and over the last two years has raised over £65,000 for local charities and good causes.

Dave Croker, President of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, said: “We are very proud of our carnival tradition here in Bridgwater, and it would not be as popular as it is without the help we receive from the local business sector.”

“We really do appreciate the generosity and kindness of Hinkley Point C, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their continued support and for becoming our main 2024 sponsor.”

The carnival has seen an upsurge in popularity in recent times, with bumper crowds watching the procession over the past couple of years, and town businesses reporting high levels of footfall throughout the carnival weekend.

Organisers are hoping this positive trend continues in 2024 and the wider merits of the carnival are fully realised.

Dave added: “As well as the obvious benefits our carnival brings to the local area, carnival also helps to nurture skills and improves the employability of those involved, and we are excitedly looking forward to this year’s carnival on Saturday 2 November.”

Earlier in the year, Hinkley Point C joined forces with Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival in a new and unique sustainability alliance which sees excess materials no longer needed at the construction site being reused and recycled by Bridgwater Carnival clubs for their 2024 entries.

Andrew Cockcroft, Hinkley Point C’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Social Impact, said: “Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is at the very heart of our community and it remains a great pleasure to support its continued growth and success.”

Hinkley Point C, currently under construction in Somerset, is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK for more than 30 years. It will supply reliable, low-carbon electricity to power around 6 million homes for 60 years. The project is vital in the fight against climate change and is also making a positive difference to people and businesses from across the region.