PICTURE GALLERY: Crowds turned out in their thousands yesterday evening (Wednesday) for Shanklin’s main carnival, which saw a bumper entry of floats and dancers as well as the return of the Island’s marching bands.
Albeit a little windy, the weather stayed dry for the annual event, which saw a spectacular mixture of colour and fun pass through the streets of Shanklin shortly after 19:00. The 40-minute long procession attracts entries from across the Isle of Wight including a tour bus in commeration to the fallen WWI heroes.
Leading the parade was Shanklin town’s Scania fire appliance, shortly followed by the Shanklin carnival queens and the Wight Diamonds Marching Band. Spectators enjoyed the return of the Island’s marching bands following their absence from this year’s Ryde Carnival, with Vectis Corps of Drums and Medina Marching Band coming together for a joint performance.
George Jenkins Transport provided entertainment on a large scale, with two lorries and trailers entered with the theme of time travel, promoting Visit Shanklin and the Shanklin Rotary Club.
Ventnor Comic Jazz Band also made an appearance, proving popular with carnival-goers.
Cllr Jon Gilbey, Deputy Town Mayor for Shanklin, joined the parade on a historic military vehicle.
