CHOBHAM’S BIGGEST COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR
FUNFAIR
ARENA DISPLAYS
SIDESHOWS
REFRESHMENTS
MAY BALL
PUNCH AND JUDY
Another triumph
PROCESSION

At least £5,000 raised for good causes

GREY skies and spitting rain threatened a repeat of last year’s all-day deluge but nothing stopped Chobham Carnival being another all-round success. The May Day Bank Holiday Monday event attracted thousands of people to the village to watch the procession and enjoy a wealth of entertainment in the recreation ground. Donations on the gates from carnival-goers who resisted the chilly wind and an afternoon downpour, along with huge support from businesses and the May Ball proceeds, means the carnival grants fund has been topped up to at least £5,000. “The carnival weekend was a triumph for local good causes and fun for all who attended,” said carnival association chairman Tim Elwin. “We were worried that there would be a second year of miserable weather, but the rain generally held off. “The ball on Saturday night was a sell-out, with more than 100 guests. The bar was nearly drained and every generously donated auction and raffle prize was hard fought-over. The auction and raffle takings made a significant contribution to the grants fund. “On the Monday, some truly spectacular astronauts, aliens and even a few rockets were on show in the brilliantly supported parade. “To general delight, the racing camels were real… whoever thought they might be pantomime horses with stick on humps? More than 70 stalls and sideshows were present and even an unwelcome downpour mid-afternoon did not deter carnival-goers.” This year’s procession theme was Space, with West Byfleet Girl Guides and Brownies judged the Best Overall entry. Valley End Infants School and Coworth Flexlands School were joint winners of the Best Walking prize and Chobham Rugby Club won the Best Young People trophy.” “Thank you to everyone who supported the carnival,” added Tim. “We couldn’t do it without the donations, financial support and practical help from businesses. And, of course, the ball guests, the procession entrants and the thousands of people who came to the carnival.”
Rainbows were little stars leading the West Byfleet Guides and Brownies winning procession entry. Time to apply for a grant APPLICATIONS for a grant from the carnival fund should be emailed to timelwin@gmail.com or posted to Chobham Carnival Association, c/o Roselandia, Bagshot Road, Chobham, Woking, Surrey GU24 8SJ, by Wednesday, 9 July. Applicants should state how much money they would like and how they would spend the grant. Applicants are welcome to attend the grants distribution meeting in the Chobham Church Hall at 7pm on Wednesday, 16 July.