WELLINGTON Majorettes are gearing up for a busy year, with the biggest team they have ever had. 

Their first full performance is in Goodland Gardens in Taunton on Saturday, March 28. But before that fundraising needs to be done and a representation in Torres Vedras, Portugal, for twin town’s carnival.

Twelve members will be travelling alongside Wellington’s Mayor Janet Lloyd to Torres Vedras to take part in a five-day carnival festival with a Magic and Fantasy theme.

The first carnival they will take part in is on the Friday morning when 5,000 children from local schools will parade around the town non-stop for three hours. Music will be played by bands, including the Majorettes’ small representation of two drummers, two glockenspiel players and bass.

The team will take part in a two more carnivals during the weekend, attend a civic dinner and visit the capital, Lisbon. But while the carnivals are taking place in Portugal, the rest of the team will be at home in Wellington, raising funds by hosting the Pop-Up Shop. The money raised will be put towards the team’s next twinning representation in August to Lillebonne in France when 45 members will take part in an exchange.

Wellington Majorettes’ Pop-Up Shop is open 9am-5pm, Monday to Saturday, February 17-29. The shop will have a variety of items on offer, crafts at low prices, ideal for keeping the children entertained during the half-term holiday, a selection of gifts and nearly new and secondhand items. 

Information about the team is available for anyone who wants more information about where the team is performing this year, how to book a performance and how to join.

For more information about Wellington Majorettes, phone Louise Brierley on 07796 933064 or e-mail [email protected]