FUNDS raised through Bridport Carnival have been handed out to good causes.

Chairman, Shaun Fox, welcomed the beneficiaries of this year’s carnival to the cheque presentation evening. 

Carnival Attendant, Lily Rayner presented cheques to Loders Youth Club, St. Mary’s Church Roof Appeal and The Bridport Bandits. Each club was asked to say how the money will be spent.

On behalf of Loders Youth Club, Rachael Nokes said their donation will go towards a talent contest to be held in the New Year. This will not only show their talent but will help boost young people’s confidence. The remainder will go towards replacing ageing equipment.

Three young people from The Bridport Bandits received their cheque saying that without such financial help, they would struggle to keep the project going. As well as helping to build a new car the money will also give the clubs’ members a great learning opportunity.

Reverend Pete Stone accepted a cheque on behalf of St. Mary’s Church Roof Appeal and was pleased to report the fund is just over half way towards its target.

A rose bush was presented to Betty Scadding as a thank you for arranging the Misplaced Article Competition.

At the event, Bridport mayor, Cllr Anne Rickard, said the carnival is ‘one of the highlights of the town calendar’.

She added that the town council is pleased the event takes place, and that it is one of her favourites, especially the Torchlight Procession on Sunday evening - so much so that she has chosen a photograph of the Torchlight Procession for her Christmas card this year. During her speech she made reference to the fact that the Carnival takes a lot of organising and is expensive to put on but hopes it will continue to take place and prosper.

Shaun thanked all the sponsors and businesses who helped. Without their generous donations there would be less to donate to charity. He went on to thank those who put in floats and who walk in the procession and all who attended the Torchlight. He concluded by thanking the committee, who is looking forward to organising Carnival 2018.

Anyone interested in joining the committee or who has ideas should please contact Joyce Dunford on 01308 422643 or email joycedunford@yahoo.co.uk.