THE COMPETITORS for this year’s Chard Carnival royalty have been announced.

The five children competing were announced last week as Romy Simmons, Gaby Morris, Jasmin Clark, Annabelle Smith and George Smith.

Jason Baker, Chard town councillor and chairman of Chard Carnival, said: “At our meeting last Thursday at The Lordleaze Hotel, Chard, we launched our carnival royalty competition for 2016.

“This year taking part, we have Gabby Morris, Romy Simmons, Annabelle Smith, Jasmin Clark and George Smith.

"They will all be selling draw tickets and running fundraising events to raise money for this year’s Chard Carnival.

“There will be lots of fundraising events across the summer where I am sure everyone will want to get involved, and then we will crown this year’s royalty in August.”

Plans are now underway for the carnival, which will be held on Saturday, October 8.

The future of the annual event was put in doubt when it was announced that a number of committee members would be stepping down.

The committee held its annual general meeting in February at the Lordleaze Hotel where Jason Baker was appointed as the new carnival committee chairman.

Doreen Toms is continuing in the role of vice-chairman, with Kerry Harris appointed as secretary, and Michelle Young and Tina Role appointed as joint-treasurer.

Mr Baker added: “We have decided this year to have the children’s carnival on the same day as the main carnival, Saturday, October 8, and to have street entertainment and various things in the town to make a whole day of family fun for Chard.

“Plans for the day are well underway but if anyone has any ideas please feel free to contact me as I am always looking for new ideas and ways to improve events.”

To get in touch with Jason Baker, email jason.baker@southsomerset.gov.uk.