Okehampton Carnival lights up the streets

There was no better way to brighten up a gloomy October day than by getting wrapped up and going to the bright and cheerful Okehampton Carnival. Gilbert Stephens Solicitors did just that on Saturday 19^th October. Okehampton Carnival is a traditional and popular event that lights up the streets of Okehampton with its lively and colourful procession of floats and costumes. There is also plenty of live music, a colourful array of floats, and a fun fair in Simmons Park.

The day commenced at 9am with a coffee morning in Charter Hall. Everyone enjoyed some warming refreshments before the judging in the afternoon, prior to the main event.

At 2pm the hall was filled with bright and colourful costumes for the judging of the children’s fancy dress competition. The crowning of the Carnival Prince and Princess, Harvey Baker and Isla Barton, took place shortly afterwards, seeing them start their royal journey leading the children’s procession at 3:15pm. There were lots of smiles and waves as they weaved their way through the streets of Okehampton.

The evening started with the judging of the delightful tableaux and stunning walking entries. The Carnival Queen, Megan Letchford, was then crowned by the Town Mayoress. This year the main procession, led by Okehampton Excelsior Band, set off at 7:15pm from School Way. It then went up Market Street, past our Okehampton office, turned left onto Fore Street, up East Street to the junction at Mill Road, and then back through the town before dispersing in Market Street.

Throughout the evening, the Carnival also featured many evening classes which Gilbert Stephens were pleased to be one of the sponsors for this year. Classes included wheelbarrow decorating and young farmers clubs.

In addition to sponsoring the evening classes, Gilbert Stephens were pleased to take part in the Carnival window competition. The Okehampton office have worked hard to transform the window into the set of The Greatest Showman to follow this year’s theme… musicals!

Terry Bastyan, Managing Partner, says, “Okehampton Carnival is organised by a team of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure everyone has fun. It continues to attract large crowds every year and it is clear why… The Carnival has an array of entertainment, from the colourful floats, exciting processions, and dance troupes, to the live music throughout the day”.

In total, this year’s Carnival has managed to raise an incredible £2,022.66!

We will eagerly anticipate the next Carnival and look forward to the vibrancy it brings to the town.