THE future of Chard Carnival has been thrown into doubt with news that nine members of the organising committee are to step down.

The departures mean just a handful of people will remain on the committee – not enough to cope with the huge workload needed to put on the event each year.

Among those stepping down from the committee are chairman Andy Chant and long-time carnival supporter Doreen Toms.

Andy said there were various reasons why they were resigning from the committee, but added there had been no “falling out” with anyone.

He has now urged others to come forward and fill the vacated positions to ensure that the carnival continues.

A carnival de-briefing meeting last Thursday (October 15, 2015) was upbeat, with people congratulating each other on a job well done.

But it was tinged with sadness when it became clear that nine committee members would be resigning at the next annual meeting of the carnival group.

Andy said: “I would like to congratulate these people for all their hard work over a long period of time – particularly vice-chairman Doreen Toms who has been on the committee for well over 40 years.

“While in some quarters this might look like the end of Chard Carnival, I have every confidence in the people of Chard to step forward and continue the fantastic work the committee has done and that carnival will continue successfully in the future.”

Yeovil MP Marcus Fysh said he was concerned to hear news of the nine committee members intending on standing down.

“The work and commitment that all carnival members put into these spectacular events is incredible,” he said.

“Our annual processions are something that the whole area is extremely proud of, and something that draws in visitors to our area year after year. I hope the resilience of the carnival groups remains and they manage to find the support they need to continue.”

Mayor of Chard, Cllr Dave Bulmer, said he too was disappointed at the news but respected the committee members’ decision.

“As in previous years this year’s carnival was another great event in which it was a pleasure to see so many people come out to enjoy themselves,” he said.

“As mayor, watching so many people enjoy themselves personally gives me an immense amount of pleasure.

“I was also pleased to be in a position to invite so many mayors from other towns across Somerset and Devon. The feedback I have had from them is they enjoyed the carnival just as much as everybody else.

“May I take this opportunity to thank everybody who organised Chard Carnival, I appreciate all the hard work that’s gone into making it happen.

“May I also thank everybody who took part in the carnival. Again, a lot of hard work has gone into all entries.”

He added: “I am sure there are some people who will want to come forward and fill those vacant positions on the committee to ensure that carnival continues in Chard.”