Families packed Wier Field throughout the afternoon, enjoying the traditional procession, live entertainment, community stalls, children’s activities and fairground attractions in an event that once again showcased the strength of the local community.
Among the busiest stalls was 1st Wroughton Scout Group, where young people and leaders ran games including Nerf target shooting, axe throwing, Crockery Smash and traditional fairground challenges while raising money for the group.
Raksha, one of the group’s leaders, said:
“We’re trying to raise money for First Wroughton Scout Group, that’s our Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.”
She said the organisation gives young people opportunities they may not otherwise experience.
“We teach young people skills for life. Those skills can be anything from empathy to resilience and ultimately it’s all about getting outside and having fun.
“Kids don’t do it enough nowadays and we give them the opportunities to do that. We go camping in the woods, cooking outdoors, hiking and bike rides. Anything to get them active and keep them active is super important in this day and age.”
One of the Scouts helping on the stall said moving up through the sections had given him more confidence.
“Cubs was fun, but Scouts gives you more freedom to do your own thing.”
The carnival also welcomed organisations from further afield, including members of the Royal British Legion Riders, who attended to support the event and promote their work within the community.
A spokesperson said the group had grown from a handful of riders into a national organisation with thousands of members.
“We turn up at fêtes like this and carnivals because we want to be prominent within the community. We also have lots of veterans from the Army, RAF and Navy and we support them in all sorts of ways.”
The annual procession was once again one of the highlights of the day, with colourful floats and walking groups making their way through the village before arriving at the showground.
Ridgeway School claimed the award for Best Children’s Float with a Disney-themed entry that students had spent around two months creating.
Student Hattie said:
“We had all Disney animals. We all decided on the theme together.”
Asked how it felt to win, she replied: “Great.”
Swindon Borough Council Cabinet Member Matty Courtliff, who judged this year’s procession, said:
“It was very difficult. There have been some absolutely amazing entries. So much effort has gone in.
“It’s great to see all the age ranges across the carnival putting in the real effort.”
Among those enjoying the day was Deputy Mayor of Swindon Gayle Cook.
She said: “It’s lovely seeing everybody out in the sunshine and enjoying themselves.”
The only change to the programme was the cancellation of the Fun Dog Show, which organisers called off before the event because of concerns for animal welfare during the warm weather.
From long-established organisations to young volunteers helping at stalls, the carnival once again highlighted the role local groups play in village life, with residents turning out in large numbers to support them throughout the day.
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