Malmesbury Carnival is set to return in earnest this summer following a challenging two years, but organisers have warned it will only be a success with the support of the whole community. 

A full-blown programme of events will take place this Summer, finishing with the showpiece carnival procession, on Saturday, September 3.

In 2020, the Carnival was run as a Zoom event and last year saw a reduced programme without a procession.

The Malmesbury Carnival committee now want to see the event return to its pre-pandemic magnitude, but have made it clear they will need help in order to do so. 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: The Malmesbury Carnival committeeThe Malmesbury Carnival committee

"We feel that it is up to us, the Malmesbury Community, to not only ensure that a full Carnival takes place in 2022 but to help make it a great occasion for everyone," a spokesperson for the committee said. 

"Event planning is well in hand but the success of Carnival will depend entirely on the support of the whole Community.

"We need people, once again, to commit hours and ingenuity on building floats; as they have done for years. We need volunteers to come forward for the myriad tasks which need to be done if Carnival is to succeed.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: The Malmesbury Carnival procession in 2019. Photo: Simon PizzeyThe Malmesbury Carnival procession in 2019. Photo: Simon Pizzey

"So, let’s get together, join in and help make this year’s Carnival a real success."

Open gardens, a scarecrow trail, spot the difference competition, a family fun day and the traditional Petticoat Lane and Music in the Cloisters events are all planned for August, along with a host of talks, quizzes, plays and other activities.

Malmesbury Carnival dates back more than 100 years and raises thousands of pounds for local good causes. Even without the procession, last year's event raised £17,000 for the town's charities and voluntary groups.

If you are interested in supporting the event, get in contact with the committee via malmesburycarnival.co.uk/volunteers 

Alternatively, come along to the Malmesbury Carnival launch evening at Malmesbury Town Hall from 7.30pm-8.30pm this evening (Wednesday, May 25).