Carnival season countdown begins

Mendip's carnival season raises thousands for local charities

Visitors who come to enjoy carnival season in Somerset are being encouraged to support local charities by giving to official collectors.

Spectacular floats, costumed and performing groups will take to the streets of Mendip in Glastonbury, Wells and Shepton Mallet in November.

Councillor John Osman said carnivals were important to the district.

"It encourages communities to work together so carnival committees can raise thousands of pounds for charity."

Other carnivals taking place in Somerset during the November illuminated season are: Bridgwater on 7 November, North Petherton 8 November, Burnham-on-Sea 10 November and Weston-super-Mare 17 November.

"Carnivals are by far some of the most impressive spectacles in the country, and the council recognises how important they are to the district and the county as a whole, "said councillor Osman.

"For visitors it is an awesome event that leaves many of them open-mouthed at the sheer excellence and ingenuity of the parades."