THESE Bridgwater ladies have shown the cuddly side of carnival.

Ten members of the Hamp Knit and Natter Group have spent the past six months knitting four spectacular carnival carts.

The carts are on display in the Bridgwater Carnival Centre, in the town hall, until the end of July, after which time the group plans to donate them to a local children's hospice.

Gloria Jackson, spokeswoman for the group, said: “The idea was first discussed 18 months ago, and it's great to see it come to fruition. We have given much thought to the designs, and tried to make them as realistic as we could.

“The carts themselves are being led by a gymnast performing on the back of an elephant, two Olympic runners and an ice skater, all of whom are being looked after by a watching policeman and fireman.

“We've even got a knitted carnivalite holding a squib above their head, just as it happens on carnival night.”

Dave Stokes, publicity officer for Bridgwater Carnival Committee, added: “It's always wonderful to see our carnival tradition portrayed in different ways, and this is the first time I have seen a knitted carnival cart.

“Much thought has gone into the design of the carts, and the level of detail is absolutely incredible.

“I would like to thank Hamp Knit and Natter Group for allowing us to display the carts in the carnival centre, and I would encourage people to drop in and have a look for themselves.”