New crew to introduce to you to....
You may or may not know but the carnival was started in 2007 by myself and Liz Ratcliffe..with support from Peter Liz's husband.
We had no idea that the carnival would be the huge success it was and had to do it again the year after to please the community and us!!
We all know how life changes things ..callings happen and Liz was ordained..and had to give up the carnival.
Liz is now the vicar of St Michael's Church in Tilehurst.
Karen Eaves ..friend the benefice cleark and supporter of all things community was persuaded to take on the role of co organiser of the carnival and for 4 years has successfully managed unaided to keep the carnival going...from an administrative point of view and most importantly me under control ..then Covid happened and we lost 2 carnivals.
All good to go last year ..Karen had done everything ready for the great return of the carnival and sadly we couldn't go ahead.
The Queen had died.
Events supported by the parish council during a time of Royal mourning were not permitted to go ahead.
So with a heavy heart we had to cancel the third carnival in a row.
Karen took a deep breath and told me because of all her other commitments she could no longer be a part of the carnival preparations.
So with a sad heart I thanked her for all she's done and thought ..what now.???
I was torn between ..we've had 3 yrs without will people even miss it ? And there are so many more people in our community we need to welcome ..there are people I haven't seen for years now and I want to see them again.
I couldnt just stop without saying good bye ..so maybe this could be the last one.
So let's see what happens and who on earth could put up with me to help me.?
I was talking to our Rosie about it ..not hinting much I don't think..anyway the next day or the day after Rosie and I were walking the dog and she said .."mum ..Katie and I will help you" !!
I could not belive my ears ...or the luck of the carnival...I kept saying are you sure ?
What a wonderful Kind gesture on both there parts.
So here am I introducing you to Rosie Johnson and Katie Harber..two new carnival crew!!!
They have a wealth of personality ..sence of fun and are completely ocd on paperwork.
They are a whirlwind of exciting fresh air and have already done so much.
It's very humbling watching them via whattsapp messages sort the whole thing out ..!
So thank you Liz for the beginning and thank you Karen for the middle and thank you Katie and Rosie for the New beginning.
Truly amazing women and they actually want to do it !!
It was the thought of a pink hi viz that sealed the deal !!!
So look out for us on 16th September 12 to 9 pm on the Recreation ground in Clares Green road.
Behind the Farriers (who will be providing the bar for us ).
Bring a donation for the food bank and let's enjoy the day !!!
