THE chairman of Wellington Carnival Committee has responded to criticism on social media that the event features too many majorette groups and says the Carnival is supporting youth.

Dave Rylatt said that the event had 60 entries this year, after the loss of three clubs, and that the days of 239 floats in 1976 had long gone.

“We are often asked why we accept so many majorette entries but the facts are fairly simple,” he said. “Take out eight majorettes groups which took part in the 2016 Carnival and we are down to 52 entries.

“Wellington Carnival Committee has decided as a policy that any youth group that wants to take part in our carnival can do so. As organisers, we can only provide an arena to attract clubs into our town – we try to look after them so they come back again. Rather than complaining about ‘too many majorettes’ on social media, it would be preferable if people could build a float or contribute or volunteer some time that might actually improve the event.

“We have only one carnival club in the town, which suggests there is apathy towards the Carnival. We do our best to allow the event to continue but we cannot force clubs to come.”

Mr Rylatt thanked everyone who helped towards the event. “I have nothing but praise for the commitment of our few committee members for delivering a safe and well-organised event this year.

“There are too many people to thank here but we have to say thank you to Bridgwater Carnival Road Crew; the town of North Petherton, which supplied more marshals and support than I thought lived in their town; and our local services, including St John Ambulance, the Police and Fire Brigade, without which we could not run the event.”

Harlequin swept the board with most awards which were presented at the Skylark Pub at Chelston. The organisers would like to thank Marstons Brewery and Martin/Steve for use of the venue for the evening.

Gemini CC was unable to take part as its tractor unit suffered a major technical breakdown. The club’s chairman offered to send its road crew and cast to Wellington to help out collecting or marshalling.­ Members were devastated after a year’s work getting ready for Carnival.

The counting of collection money has been delayed slightly due to time commitments hosting the international guests but full details will be included in the WWN next week.