CHANGES may have to be made to ensure the future success of Minehead's annual carnival after another poor turnout for this year's event.

In all, only 15 entries took part in the procession from Alcombe to the town centre on Saturday evening.

There are now fears that the parade may even face the axe, although organiser and town councillor Ron Wright was unwilling to say what, if any, changes would be made.

He said: "I have tried everything to get the clubs and people of Minehead involved but they just don't seem to be interested in the carnival.

"I would not like to comment on future carnivals until after I have had a meeting with the other organisers in September."

In contrast, The Avenue street fayre held last Wednesday as part of the gala fortnight celebrations was hailed as a huge success with hundreds of visitors eager to part with their money.

Unfortunately, there was a downside to the event when one of the organisers inadvertently used permanent spray paint to mark out the pitches for the various stalls.

Although the stallholders upped and left at the end of the day the marks remained and yesterday (Thursday) Minehead Town Council and West Somerset District Council were still trying to find a solution to the unusual graffiti problem.

Town council chairman Meigan Lyons said: "As always the street fayre was a great success. It's just very sad that an incident like this should mar the event.

"We are doing our utmost to put the matter right, but it's not easy to remove the paint. However, we are working with WS Atkins and the district council to try and get it back to normal as soon as possible."

Mr Wright said The Parks Walk fun event for children, complete with rides, entertainment and displays, had also been well supported.

Carnival results

Interflora Shield for best moving float, Minehead Amateur Theatrical Association; Loyal Order of Moose Trophy for best tableau, Watchet Red Cross; Tony Pryce Shield for best club entry, Sea Cadets' gun carriage; Loyal Order of Moose Trophy for best adult walking entry, John Leech (clown); Butler Fuels Shield for best under 16 float, Bellevue Witches; Wyndcott Hotel Shield for best under 16 walking entry, Cheeky Cherubs (Minehead Nursery); Bass Social Club Trophy for best pub entry, Butcher's Arms Renegades; Natwest Challenge Rosebowl for best trade entry, CVS.

Photos: Steve Guscott