AWARD-WINNING Ilminster carnival club Harlequin has received a “bitter blow” and is again searching for a new home.

The club had to leave Parsonage Farm at Ashill in 2011 and now members are having to say goodbye to their Parshalls Farm headquarters in Donyatt.

Club chairman Steve Dawe said: “Our lease has come to an end, our landlord’s lease with the council has come to an end and it looks unlikely that either will be renewed in a format which will allow us to stay.

“We wish to thank Anna and her family for allowing us to share their home and wish them well for the future.

“This is, of course, a bitter blow. We have literally only just become settled and begun to get everything close to how we want it. We have until March 1, 2016, which means this season is safe.

“We are once again in search of that parcel of land, corner of a field – somewhere to hang our costumes and call home. I have to call on every person reading these words to be on the lookout for us.”

The club’s plans for the 2015 Carnival season remain unaltered but members have been told they will have to fundraise a little more, ready for the move.

“We will aim to achieve our very best on the road for 2015 – it is the ‘close’ season as we cross into 2016 that we simply won’t be able to rest,” added Steve.

“Those that were with us four years ago know what it takes to move. We are a stronger club today and while it will not be easy, I am confident we can emerge stronger still.”

The quest for a new home is only just starting and the chairman has warned that the club will be making regular appeals for materials, money and resources over the next 12 months.

Anyone who can offer help, contact Steve Dawe on 07957-574424.