There was an air of festive anticipation in Pembroke Dock last Saturday as preparations got underway for the town's winter carnival. The spirit of Christmas was particularly noticeable in Meyrick Street, where the staff of the Chip Shop were sporting santa and reindeer regalia, and favourite Christmas songs could be heard from a loudspeaker outside the Music Center. Along one side of the street, charity stalls offered books,bric-a-brac, soft toys and raffle prizes; along the other, fairground trucks were arriving.
The start of the carnival was heralded by an hour of carol singing in the Memorial Park, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus himself. He was followed by a large crowd of children and parents as he made his way in his sleigh along Bush Street and down Meyrick Street to the Christmas tree at the bottom. The tree was then illuminated to the sound of a few more carols.
The singing was faint, however, compared with the noise of a multitude of children and families having a good time. Meyrick Street had been converted into a fairground with amusement rides and roundabouts, candy-floss and hot-dog vans. The Good News Bus was offering cold carnival-goers warm drinks and conversation. Flashing Christmas wands and Santa hats were available for those with extra party spirit.
It was into this crowded, enthusiastic atmosphere that the carnival procession made its way from Albion Square down Meyrick Street to Father Christmas, before turning right into Dimond Street, which was also lined with eager spectators.
The procession, escorted by the Swansea Carnival Display Band, featured many spectacular floats from around Pembrokeshire, and walking entries of an equally high standard.
Judges for the day were the Mayor and Mayoress of Narberth, the Mayor and Mayoress of Pembroke and the Mayor of Milford. A second circuit allowed them to make their verdicts.
Best senior float was the Dragon Inn, Narberth, with 'Just a Flying Visit' by Mason Tool Hire, also of Narberth, winning the junior category. The junior second prize was awarded to the Pater Panto Society for 'Cinderella'.
The Third Pembroke Sea Scouts were winners of the best town junior float prize for their 'Wild West Show'.
Adding to their other victories, Woods Cross Company won 'best overall float' with their ingenious 'Quasimodo'.
First prize for best senior walking entries was awarded to Bush and Park Residents as 'Quality Streets', with Albion Square staff picking up second prize as the 'Albion Snowly Polys'.
Best junior group was 'Pied Piper', a group from the Barnardos Yo-Yo Centre.
In addition to the carnival entries, there were also prizes given for the best illuminated houses and shops.
The following won champagne bottles for being the best illuminated houses in their wards:
Pennar Ward and overall winners: Mr. and Mrs. Brown, 26 Nelson Street.
Market Ward winners: Mr. and Mrs. Edwards, Chapel Road, Llanreath.
Central Ward winners: Mr. and Mrs. Goff, 20 Lewis Street.
Llanion Ward winner: Mr. K. Boyle, 110 Bush Street.
Winners of the silver salver for best illuminated house window were Mr. and Mrs. J. Spurr, of 4 Charlton Place, while Adrian's Flower Shop was awarded best illuminated shop window.
Some of the shops had stayed open for the event, including the Animal Charity Shop in Lower Meyrick Street, and Browns Café, which looked very full once the procession had passed.
The evening was rounded off with a short but impressive firework display; a fitting closure to an evening of fun.
The smooth running of the carnival does credit to the organisers and the local police, who, despite difficulties with one of their vehicles, ensured clear access for Santa and the procession, and safety for all.