Hale Carnival made a spectacular return on the Green in Hale last Saturday – and all the action was captured from the air by drone photographer Nigel Harrison.
Nigel's remarkable aerial photos capture the bright lights of the carnival funfair, which continued long after the sun had gone down alongside live music, liquid refreshment, a barbecue and street food.
The afternoon started at 2pm with Farnham’s town crier, Michael Stephens announcing the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Honourable Jeremy Hunt.
The South West Surrey MP officially opened the afternoon's entertainment before handing over to the Mayor of Farnham, Alan Earwaker, who presented a cheque for £1,000 to Hale Carnival committee chairperson Sara Lee.
Farnham Institute Charity also made a donation of £2,000 and Moran Roofing Specialists of Farnham were exclusive sponsors of this years carnival.
The spectacular event strives to bring together the exceptional community talents to delight attendees of all ages.
Folly Hill School showcased their Maypole dancing, followed by the hugely popular dog show sponsored by Woofs & Walkies, judged by Roger Holden, bringing smiles and wagging tails all round.
Musical entertainment dominated the main stage with The Rockin’ Rogers kicking things off and getting everyone dancing and singing.
Brute Choir kept the party going, followed by Rock Choir who’s harmonies wowed the crowds whilst they waited for the procession.
Hale School field provided the perfect meeting place for the procession entries, which the on-site Community Centre helped host. The carnival committee thanked Melissa Salisbury and Sue Connolly for "expertly organising the entrants".
At 6pm the procession made its way along the Upper Hale Road providing a spectacle of sound and entertainment for everyone lining the streets, under the eagle eyes of procession judges Cllr Alan Earwaker, Colin and Fiona Stride and Elaine and Ray Fell the winners were:
Class A – Folly Hill Infant School
Class B – William Cobbett Primary School
Class C – Hale Youth Club
Class D – Bethel Baptist Church
Class E – Colin Wallace
Brobed Stils kicked off the evenings entertainment, followed by DJ Jimbo spinning some club classics. Rehab Blues completed the final set with the crowds shouting for more.
The carnival committee kept everyone well catered for with their regular and very popular beer tent, Pimms, gin and food tent. Children were entertained by Dizzy in the childrens tent, also run by the committee, with two very popular face painters, Catherine and Isabel.
One supporter commentedsaid: “Amazing day as always. Been going to Hale Carnival since I was very young and now taking my daughter to experience it like I did. Please please don’t ever cancel Hale Carnival. Keep it going for generations to come!”
More than 30 stalls decorated the Green ranging from garden plants to Farnham Youth choir and a Sprinkle of Saffron in between.
Coneley’s Fun Fair provided some thrilling new rides.
A spokesman from the carnival committee expressed their delight, saying: “After 12 months preparation and fund raising we are delighted to have had a fantastic day.
"We face the same price increases as everyone else, and this year’s event has cost over £20,000 to fund.
"Early signs are that this was another hugely successful event, all profits will again be distributed for the benefit of the local community.
"As always, huge thanks to the entire carnival committee for being so committed over the last 12 months, giving up three days of their own time to set up, work tirelessly all day, and then take down on the Sunday.
"Special thanks to all our volunteers and helpers for putting up marquees, carrying furniture, marshalling the procession, working behind stalls, the list is endless!
"We are immensely grateful for your unwavering commitment. There are lots of you, and you know who you are.”
The carnival committee would also like to express their appreciation to Surrey Police for responding to an incident close to the site, which unfortunately led to the cancellation of the firework display.
"Please start thinking about your procession entries for 2024 and help the committee to go from strength to strength."
For all information related to the carnival, visit the website www.halecarnival.co.uk