Countdown to Carnival - tonight's the night! (From Bridgwater Mercury)

Countdown to Carnival - tonight's the night!

7:58am Friday 9th November 2007 in

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THERE are now only hours to go until Bridgwater's favourite annual event illuminates the town during a dazzling parade of colourful costumes, bright lights and creative carts.

With Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival due to start at 7pm tonight (Friday), clubs are busy adding the finishing touches to their artistic entries before the long-awaited procession.

The 402-year-old tradition has been gathering legions of spectators since its beginning - this year will be no different when thousands of families line the streets once again to celebrate the largest illuminated Carnival in Europe.

Since 2006's spectacular, clubs have increased their efforts as one particular cart made a huge impact and stuck in the minds of Carnival-goers.

The bar was raised when Gremlins Carnival Club's awesome Ghost Ship (Deliver Us) served spectators with one of the most visually stunning carts the event has seen.

Hoping to make an impact this year, more than 150 entries will trail brightly along the procession route, cheered on by the growing number of fans.

They will not be disappointed as the 2007 Carnival certainly looks like it will be the greatest one to date.

In his official address, Doug Robson, president of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, agreed.

He said: "I'm really excited about this year, and think it could be the biggest and best Carnival yet.

"I think people who are seeing it for the first time will be amazed - and I'm sure they will be back to see it again."

On sale now, a special Mercury preview contains eight pages dedicated to the Sedgemoor Carnival weekend, packed with insight into clubs, route details for Bridgwater, Burnham and North Petherton, the entry list, and an insight into how Gremlins Carnival Club plan on topping last year's entry.

As if that wasn't enough, log on to this website tonight for the first results and best pictures from Carnival, backed by stunning video footage - as well as checking out next week's Mercury for comprehensive coverage.

On the night, wrap up warm, be sure to bag a good spot and get stuck into Bridgwater's biggest party of the year.