THE Chard community and those involved in carnivals across Somerset have reacted to the tragic accident which saw a woman become trapped under a carnival float.

The accident happened after the procession had finished passing through the town, and saw the woman airlifted to Southmead Hospital where she remains in a critical condition.

For the full report on the incident, click here.

Chard Carnival Committee has issued a statement, describing the incident as a 'freak accident'.

It said: "At approximately 10pm yesterday an incident occurred at Chard carnival where a woman became trapped under a carnival cart.

"At this time the incident is being investigated by the authorities although at this stage it would appear to be a freak accident.

"The woman was airlifted to Southmeads Hospital in Bristol and is currently being treated for her injuries.

"Our thoughts are currently with the injured women and her family, along with the carnival club in question and we would please ask that people respect the privacy of the family at this time.

"The carnival community which has an exemplary safety reputation, and which is governed by much regulation is shocked by the incident in what was otherwise a well organised and well run event."

The woman was a member of Eclipse Carnival Club, and was trapped under part of their float.

A member of the Eclipse Carnival Club said: "We would like to thank all the emergency services last night who arrived on the scene very quickly and helped/looked after us efficiently.

"We appreciate everything you did for the family and club members.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to our club member and her family and wish her a speedy recovery and ask that everyone respect the families privacy at this difficult time."

A family member has set up a gofundme page to help support them and cover any potential costs.

Aiyesha Nolan said: "As most of you now know, there was a tragic accident last night at the end of Chard Carnival.

"The lady this happened to, is the most loving thoughtful caring lady anyone would ever come across.

"She is an incredible grandmother to my son, and an amazing mother to all of her kids.

"I won't mention too much about what is currently going on, because I think the entire family deserve a bit of respect and privacy.

"I've set this page up, to try and help keep the family going, any hospital costs, and anything else which will help. Thankyou everyone for your wishes and thoughts."

To support to gofundme campaign, visit www.gofundme.com/carnival-incident.

Stuart Cummings, Chard Town Crier, said: "The events from last night were tragic and I extend my sincere best wishes to the person involved and her family and friends.

We have a good community here and now is the time to demonstrate this out of respect.

"I must congratulate all who took part in, arguably, one of the best carnivals the town has seen in a very long time. It is all these dedicated participants and organisers that keep our tradition of carnival alive, a tradition we can be really proud of."

Chard Town Council has also issued statement following the incident.

It said: "The Mayor, Elected Members and staff at Chard Town Council offer our thoughts and prayers to the women injured at Chard Carnival on Saturday night. We wish her and her family all the best for her recovery.

"Chard Town Council would also like to praise the local emergency services who acted so promptly and professionally to the incident.

"We are unable to comment further on the matter as it is part of an ongoing police investigation.

"We ask that people respect the privacy of the family at this time."

A spokesman for Chudley Moving and Shipping said: "As reported in the local press an awful incident happened at the end of the Chard Carnival procession last night. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured lady and her family.

"The incident happened directly in front of our vehicle and we would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the wonderful people of our emergency services. They were on the scene within minutes and worked tirelessly.

"To all involved carnival marshalls, first responders, paramedics, firefighters, police officers and last by no means least the helicopter crew, we salute you."

A spokesman for the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Committee has released a statement following last nights events at Chard Carnival.

She said: "Our thoughts are with those involved in the serious incident at Chard Carnival last night.

"We don’t have any details and speculation is inappropriate but we’re sure the whole carnival community are thinking of all concerned."

Nicola-clare Kelly Weller said: "Sending love and prayers to the poor woman involved, her family, all those involved in the float concerned and the marshals.

"The greatest respect should be given to the emergency services that tonight worked tirelessly after arriving quickly in great force. I witnessed how amazing they are tonight unfortunately.

"A lot of work goes on from hundreds of people to provide these carnivals to their communities.

"From marshals to judges, majorette troupes to floats and all the amazing performers in between, these people pour their heart and soul into these carnivals and this, I know, will be devastating for all of these people, this is the absolute last thing anyone would want and we will all be thinking of all concerned."