IN a spectacular ‘first’, a team of professional BMX freestyle riders will display their thrilling brand of cycling skills and stunts around the streets of Farnham as part of this year’s carnival procession.

The team will be led by Matti Hemmings, a triple Guinness world record holder well-known worldwide for his appearances on TV shows, commercials and computer games.

“Carnival 2017 will focus on one of the great family highlights of the summer, ‘A Day at the Seaside’,” said carnival chairman Colin Jordan.

“However young or old we are, we all have great memories of trips to the coast, whether it’s Donald Magill’s saucy postcards, donkey rides on the beach, building sandcastles or dipping our toes in the sea for the first time.

“So this year’s theme will give full rein to the imagination, as those taking part look to re-create the magic of what’s always a great day out.”

Run by the Farnham Lions and The Hedgehogs, the Farnham Carnival 2017 will take place on Saturday, June 24. All hopes are for good weather, which always brings huge crowds to both the procession and fayre.

Throughout the afternoon and evening Gostrey Meadow will provide music and entertainment put on by local performers, as well as a wide range of charity stalls, drinks tents and food stalls, including for the first time a seafood bar reflecting this year’s coastal theme.

Building on the success of last year’s tented craft display, the carnival team plans to expand this with the addition of a second marquee and would be delighted to hear from local craft people keen to showcase their work.

And, as ever, there will be a large children’s play area with entertainers providing something special for the younger visitors.

The procession organisers are keen to attract entrants from all parts of the Farnham community: participation is free and open to schools, charities, businesses and other groups, providing a unique opportunity to promote local organisations and give a ‘shop window’ to current projects and other initiatives.

Special awards and certificates will be presented to the most outstanding entries and, as in previous years, all proceeds collected during the procession will be shared between the participating schools, youth groups and charities.

In 2016, the ‘Best in Show’ award went to the Jubilee Church for their imaginative take on Star Wars and the planning team is already looking at ideas for this year’s entry.

Family and community worker Sara Maslen said the church, which has taken part in carnival for many years, was “shocked but delighted” to take the top honour last year and would encourage any local organisation to take part.

She added: “Working together in the weeks coming up to carnival in making the props and outfits and then taking part in the parade on the day is great fun and creates a terrific community spirit.”

The organisers would also like to hear from any businesses who would like to contribute to sponsoring the event and help with the running costs. As part of the publicity opportunities for all those providing financial support, regular Twitter and Facebook feeds continue to generate increased interest from followers each year.

“Carnival simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of local organisations and individuals,” continued Colin.

”At the same time, volunteers from Lions, Hedgehogs and across the Farnham community do a great job in organising and running activities throughout the day.

“It’s never too early to start thinking about how you can take part in the carnival, which is always one of the most important and enjoyable days in the Farnham calendar.

“Whether you are interested in sponsorship, taking a stall at the Gostrey Meadow fayre, joining the procession or simply want to find out more about the day’s activities, please visit our carnival website at www.farnhamcarnival.org.

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“So get the sand between your toes and join us for a great day out!”