Carnival back after historic event pulled due to insurance issues

The Wombourne Carnival was axed last summer after almost 40 years as the village's show-piece event.

But, under a new organising committee, the summer event is set to return on Sunday, July 5.

The show was halted 12 months ago after insurance was refused for the popular event, which is regularly attended by 3,000 people. It was refused because a claim for a young boy who allegedly broke his leg on a slide had not been settled.

But the new organising committee has been in talks with Wolverhampton City Council and parliamentary candidate Gavin Williamson, who is defending his seat in South Staffordshire.

This year's return will see the carnival incorporate a wonderful world of cinema theme with organisers encouraging visitors to dress up as their favourite movie character.

The carnival is a free event and will open in traditional format with a street parade through Wombourne starting at 12pm. There will be a fun fair, live music, dance and drama groups, craft and charity stalls and fun races.

Newly-appointed chairman Victoria Bratt said: "We are thrilled to be bringing Wombourne Carnival back for the local community, especially as we can include the parade which has long been a well-loved tradition.

"I lived in the village for many years and attended the event as a child, so it feels great to be part of it all.

"It was obviously very disappointing for the whole of the community that last year's carnival could not go ahead, but the committee is confident that the issues have been resolved.

"It will be a real community themed event celebrating what the village is all about."

The event's Facebook page has seen dozens of people expressing their excitement at the return.

Dawn Simmonds said: "That's fantastic news, it's a tradition that should never stop."

While Doreen Dawe said: "Brilliant news. Look forward to it. Always a good atmosphere and brings the village together – thanks to the hard work of the committee."

For more information about the carnival, visit www.wombournecarnival.co.uk, search Wombourne carnival on Facebook or follow its Twitter page @womcarnival.