Despite the threat of gale force winds and heavy downpours, spectators were out in their droves on Saturday to witness another colourful Narberth Winter Carnival parade. With street entertainers and stalls lining the streets of the town, and the festive decorations lighting up the shop fronts and buildings, a real festive party atmosphere was in place for the 15th annual event. The lively parade of floats and fancy dress walkers featured characters from all walks of life as everyone joined in with the merriment of the season to celebrate the occasion, even Batman and Robin gave a lift to the event to their foes, the Joker and Penguin, to show the goodwill that was on hand during the evening! Winter Carnival secretary Gareth Rowe, who was in his fifth year of involvement with the event, bowed out of proceedings on a high. "The panto in the day was an absolute whizz and went down a scream with both adults and children, and I'm sure another will be put on again next year," he said. "The dance was a complete sell-out as always, with everyone getting into the spirit of things with a drink or two. For the evening parade, the weather was kinder than expected and, although there were not as many entries as last year, that did not stop those who did enter having plenty of fun," continued Gareth. "This has been my fifth year involved in the carnival and I have decided to bow out, but I would like to thank Kris, Frieda, Pat, Ruth and Mike for their support in the organisation. Also I would like to thank unsung heroes such as Andrew Jenkins, Ceri Richards, Andrew Rees, Rebecca Bevan, Total refinery for donating the trophies; the best parade marshall Narberth could have, John 'Pip' Phillips, Ann Taylor, who gives up her whole day to count the money (she's a legend), Mike and Carol Rowe (Mike is Santa every year and braves all the weather conditions, while Carol helps endlessly with the money counting) and, of course, many thanks to the team from Narberth pool who showed great support, and everyone who helped out from the start of the day to the finish. "If there is anyone out there who would like to get involved in the future, please contact Frieda John on 01834 861158," he added.
RESULTS
Best large float over 17-foot - Narberth RFC as Snow White and the seven dawrves. Best float under 17-foot - Crawford and Eddison families from Pembroke as the Chronicles of Narnia. Best car and trailer - Dingles Caravans as the Batmobile. Best adult walker - Edward Scissorhands. Best child walker - Lauren Rowland, of Tavernspite, as a spider. Best overall float - Crawford and Eddison families from Pembroke as the Chronicles of Narnia.