A WOMAN who was sent to Ilminster as part of the evacuation during the Second World War has spoken of her fond memories of the town’s popular carnival.

Barbara Walker, formerly Farrier, emailed in a picture to the News regarding the carnival and her fond memories of it.

The picture above was taken during the carnival in 1949, when Britain was still in the grips of a post-war depression, with the country in financial difficulties as it recovered from the war.

But people didn’t let it stop them having a good time and they took to the streets for the festivities.

Barbara sent the email following an appeal in the News for information about the carnival, and she recalls: “I am an ex resident of Ilminster, evacuated during the war. I am now 82 years old and have just bought my self an iPad.

“I see you were wondering when Ilminster carnival started. If it helps I was on a carnival float, aged 16 in 1949.

“Bob Hurlstone was chairman for many years, and a very good one too! It was all such a big deal in those days! Everyone seemed to join in, I have photos even now. I have been back to Ilminster several times over the years but have never seen any of the old faces.

“Some people just might remember my family, the Farriers. My father had one arm and was a great fan of the local football team.

“The carnival float pictured won first prize; I am sitting on the extreme right of the float.”