Thousands watch elaborate carnival cart procession

Rock shows, Del Boy and his three-wheeler from Only Fools and Horses, and a circus big top were among the themes showcased during a spectacular illuminated carnival procession.

Thousands of people watched the event in Bridgwater, Somerset, where clubs spend the entire year preparing carts for the show.

Dan Prosser from the Renegades Carnival Club said the preparations were “more like a lifestyle than just a hobby,” adding his non-carnival friends think his devotion to the event is “absolutely nuts”.

The carnival ended with 210 people – including local MP Sir Ashley Fox – taking part in squibbing, where a large firework, strapped to a solid block of wood on the end of a pole, is lit.

Crowds watched in awe as the illuminated creations weaved through the streets

Each cart is judged on categories including presentation, routine or comic content, lighting, costume and make up, and cart construction

Volunteer-run carnival clubs across the region spend all year building carts for the parades

Thousands of spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the procession

Each mounted cart is designed around a specific theme with synchronized lighting, costumes, movement, and an accompanying soundtrack

Performers stole the show, dressed in elaborate costumes to match each theme

About 210 “squibbers” took part in the traditional finale event

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