True Brit grit won the day at the Burwell Carnival after hundreds of people enjoyed music and entertainment despite the rain in a day that raised thousands of pounds for community funds.
In a moment of pure irony, that could not have been scripted, the choir sang Walking in Sunshine and Oh Happy day as the rain lashed down on to an umbrella clad crowd marking a fitting musical tribute to the day, said co chairman Peter Lancaster.
“As the heavens opened, the choir kept big grins on their faces and sang their hearts out. It was the highlight of the day for me,” said Mr Lancaster.
It is the 26th year of the popular annual event which sees the community pulling together for a day of family fun including this year’s popular spitfire fly past and colourful parade.
“A big thankyou to everyone who got involved with a special thanks for judges Sue Evans, Andrea Bowden & Peter Hiscocks and Mark Cross Transport Services Ltd for a goodly number of the parade vehicles.
“We did get 2 hours of persistent rain in the afternoon, with thunder & lightning for good measure.
“Newmarket Hotshots need medals for their bravery in performing while twirling batons. Also similar conditions for Newmarket Gymnastics.”
The rain dried up for the evening’s entertainment from bands The Indietones, Staycations, Abstracts & Midas Collective.
The carnival day has become a popular event on the village calendar which this year raised around £10,000 for community groups.
Mr Lancaster urged young talent to come forward to help take the event to a new level next year.
“We need some young shoots to help grown what is the biggest fund raiser of the year.
“Some fresh faces would be fantastic so we urge anyone interested to get in touch,” he said.
Next on the entertainment list is I’ve Got Rhythm, a celebration of jazz and classical music, at St Mary’s Church from 7.30pm.
Tickets available online for £8 by visiting ticketsource.co.uk/elyconsort or can be bougt on the door for £10. Under 16s are free.
To offer help for the 2015 carnival call Mr Lancaster on 07810 450769 / 01223 264975 or visit the Facebook page Burwell Carnival.
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