TRIBUTES have been pouring in for the man who has kept Bridgwater Carnival’s glittering squibbing display alive.

Clive Kett, 60, died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on May 21.

He was passionate about pyrotechnics and took the position as squibbing officer for the Bridgwater Carnival Committee in 1998. Clive was also responsible for the annual fireworks display, marking the start of the carnival festivities each year.

Rita Jones, carnival president, said: “He had been a willing helper for several years before joining the committee.

“He did an excellent job in developing the squibs and the squibbing display into the spectacular event we have today.

“I think his finest and proudest moment was when he led committee and club members on to the beach at Weymouth in July 2012 to commemorate the opening of the Olympic sailing events.

“Clive had a wealth of knowledge and experience which will be hard to replace. Our thoughts are with his wife Gill and son Greg at this sad time.”

Dave Stokes, Bridgwater Carnival publicity officer, said: “Everybody at Bridgwater Carnival was very saddened to hear of his passing.

“He made an immense contribution to carnival over the years as both chairman and squibbing officer.

“He was particularly passionate about squibbing and the fireworks display in St Matthew’s Field the night before the carnival.

“Because of his pyrotechnics background, he always ran the show there.

“He was very proud of the fact that Bridgwater was the only town in the world that still holds simultaneous squibbing and loved seeing all the different pictures of the squibbing every year.”

“He will be greatly missed by everyone.”

Alan Christie, director of Skyburst Fireworks, who worked closely with Clive every year, said: “He was always such an energetic and passionate person.

“He really did go out of his way to make sure everything was done properly. It was always a pleasure to work with him because of his attitude.

“He always did things in an entertaining and fun way. He will have a special place in our hearts for his displays.

“I don’t know how he did it but he managed to keep the squibbing going in Bridgwater.

“There’s no doubt he’s going to be missed. It’s going to take somebody special to fill his boots in Bridgwater.”

Clive leaves his wife, Gillian, son Gregory and parents Ray and Beryl Kett. The funeral will be at St Mary’s Church, Bridgwater, on Friday, June 6 at 11am. Family flowers only.