A STEEL band, a variety of bands and the community choir – and the parade – all added to the atmosphere that helped Watchet Carnival and Fete go with a swing on Sunday (July 29).

The entertainment started on The Esplanade with ‘Steel the Show’, a community steel band based in the Blackdown Hills, at its first Watchet Carnival, followed by the Watchet Community Choir singing and inviting all to join in.

The Global Stars Aerobatic Display by two stunt planes could not go ahead, but there was still excitement for the crowd – such as circus skills entertainer Elfic whose unicycling, ladder balancing, juggling of balls, clubs and fire captivated all ages, especially when there was a breeze!

The Savage Skills cycle stunt team staged its bike-flipping ‘Anti-Gravity’ show and BMX extreme free-styling display.

There was also laser clay shooting, skittles, Pete the Poet’s workshop and the first tug-of-war tournament plus numerous stalls.

Bideford Youth Pipe Band along with Barnstaple Town Youth Marching Band, Dolphin Marching Band, Wellington Majorettes and South Coast Waves Cheerleaders processed among the array of colourful floats and carnival entries.

Watchet Town Crier Dave Milton announced the start of the parade, which was led by Watchet Carnival Queen Alisha Helm and her court, attendant Honey Filer, princes Alfie Worth and Joseph Puttick and princesses Ellie-May Puttick and Olivia Worley.

It ended at the Memorial Ground for the full day’s programme of activities and entertainment.

Results and lots more pictures in today’s Free Press (August 3).