11:05am Tuesday 22nd April 2008
By Rory McKeown
A BRIDGWATER carnival club has folded because of float-building difficulties and a lack of members.
Evolution Carnival Club, formerly Young At Heart Pilgrims, confirmed the sad news to the Mercury this week.
Young At Heart Pilgrims formed in 2002 and changed its name to Evolution in 2005. Last year, the club boasted as many as 30 members but due to last minute technical problems, their cart was unable to join the parade.
Roger Huxley, Evolution Carnival Club chairman, said: "I am slightly upset as I've been involved with the club for a while but we were down to around six committed members and we just could not continue.
"Also, our building headquarters has new owners who want to use the space for other things, meaning we were searching for somewhere else. It was becoming too impractical to continue.
"Last year, we had a really bad season and it contributed to many of our members leaving. It is unfortunate."
Mr Huxley also said the lack of youth involvement was having a negative effect on the carnival.
He said: "Currently, there is a clear universal problem throughout the clubs with getting young people involved.
"Many leave Bridgwater for higher education and fail to return. It is disappointing as the carnival heritage needs to be preserved and its tradition needs to continue. I am hoping it will improve."
Roger has decided to remain involved with the carnival and is on the lookout for another club.
He added: "A small group of us will join another club. We are tired from last year's hard work and disappointment but we are just looking forward to working with another club.
"I would like to thank everyone who has been involved with Evolution Carnival Club over the years. You have helped keep the carnival spirit alive."
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