CARNIVAL chiefs in Sturminster Newton are battling to save a town tradition dating back nearly 60 years.

A combination of bad weather, increased regulation and a drop in sponsorship have prompted organisers to redouble their efforts to ensure the carnival’s future.

John Fish, the vice-chairman of the Sturminster Newton Carnival Committee, said the annual event remained at the heart of the community.

“People who have moved away choose the carnival weekend to return to the town to visit relatives.

“And we’re very lucky in the support we receive from people who have moved here.”

But “monsoon conditions” in 2007, and heavy rain in 2008, dented the committee’s reserve funds to meet the £3,000 costs of staging the event.

“The carnival is the day on which we take most of the money. If we have a washout, the bills still have to be paid for things like public liability insurance and the hire of the bands,” said Mr Fish.

Increased regulation had caused extra administrative headaches despite an “excellent relationship” with local police, he added.

The carnival procession through the centre of the town from Bridge Street to the industrial estate was likely to attract a larger contingent of walking floats in future, he said.

Changes to the farming industry had left fewer areas in which larger floats could be built and stored, he added.

Town, district and county councillor David Fox said the carnival was part of the “lifeblood” of the town.

“Sturminster Newton has grown tremendously and the carnival is a chance to involve newcomers, and to show off the talents of local people,” said Cllr Fox. This year’s carnival will be held on August 15 and 16 and will include a display from the English Civil War Society.

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