Carnival sponsorship holding up well despite downturn
Carnival sponsorship ‘holding up well’ despite downturn
EIGHTY years after it was first held sponsorship income for this month’s Ringwood Carnival is holding up well despite the recession.
Michael Lingam-Willgoss, Vice-Chairman of the Carnival Committee, said about £4,000 had been raised from sponsors for the 2009 event.
“Of course we always welcome more sponsors but, in the current climate, we’re encouraged by the level of support,” he said.
Mr Lingam-Willgoss was speaking after receiving a £1,000 cheque from one of the event’s major sponsors, Ellis Jones Solicitors.
He was accompanied by 2009 Carnival Queen Charlotte Benson, 16, and Linda Card, who assists the queen.
This year’s carnival day is on Saturday September 19 with a children’s afternoon procession followed by an illuminated evening procession.
Free events on The Bickerley include a fair, trade stands, the ‘Village Green’ with charity/community stalls and a grand firework display evening finale.
The Ellis Jones sponsorship will cover the ‘Friday Frolics’ and street entertainment.
The first Ringwood Carnival was held in 1929 with the event held every year since 1950.
Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, said: “We pride ourselves on our roots in the local community. Ellis Jones’ sponsorship is the clearest possible demonstration of this and we wish the carnival every success.”
