Doddington Village Sports and Carnival returned for its 93rd year over the weekend, welcoming “amazing weather” and an “enormous turnout”.
The American entertainment themed event, which took place on Saturday, July 4, began with a morning parade led by this year’s Prince and Princess, Charlie Alger and Hope Crook.
The parade showcased nine decorated floats, five military vehicles, two American dream girl stilt walkers, an American truck, vintage bus, miniature red double-decker bus and a variety of US style motorcycles.
Throughout the day musical entertainment came from a trio of live bands: Freddie’s Jazzmen, Last Chance Saloon Band and Bondy while the fancy dress competition received numerous entries.
There was also an appearance from a number of the Norwich Devils American Football team who showcased their skills and invited children to try the sport and try on the team kit.
The sports afternoon which took place at the Recreation Ground, Benwick Road, hosted a large number of activities for children and adults, this year welcomed two new features - a nine metre climbing wall and an obstacle course.
Later, there was a medal presentation where awards were given for the best adult float (The Blasts from the Past’s tribute to Gone With The Wind), best children’s float (Lionel Walden School with New York! New York!) and best vehicle in show (Paul Hutchcraft).
Jason Shepheard, Chairman of the Doddington Carnival Committee, said: “The village looked great with all the bunting and the many scarecrow entries.
“The floats were fantastic; they seemed to be of a higher standard this year making the judge’s job very difficult.
“The sports afternoon was a great success,” he added.
“The climbing wall proved very popular with the children and the new obstacle course was a hit with all ages from toddlers to mums and dads.
“There was a special element for the adults that cooled them down at the end – buckets of cold water being thrown!”
He added: “The Rascal Theatre Group also gave an entertaining performance, even after entering a float in the morning. They had endless energy.”
Mr Shepheard and the Committee added that they are thankful to the people of the village who have supported and attended the fundraising events throughout the year and the carnival day itself, as well as the hauliers and famers who gave their time and equipment for free.
“We wouldn’t be able to have the carnival without them – everyone really pulled together as a team”, he added.
Mr Shepheard, who says preparations for next year’s event have already begun, added: “We are already looking forward to next year. Hopefully we can make it bigger & better still!”
Doddington Carnival 2016 will take place on Saturday, July 6.
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