ONE of Europe’s largest construction projects has teamed up with one of Europe’s largest illuminated carnivals in a unique partnership.

The Hinkley Point C project has been confirmed as the main event sponsor for this year’s Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, which returns to the streets of Bridgwater on Saturday, November 5.

Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is the oldest carnival in the UK, and this is only the second time in its long and distinguished history to attract a main event sponsor.

Mike Crocker, president of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, said: “On behalf of everybody involved with our carnival, I would like to take this opportunity to thank EDF and Hinkley Point C for their generous support and for becoming our main event sponsor.

Bridgwater Mercury: Photo: Bridgwater Photographic SocietyPhoto: Bridgwater Photographic Society (Image: Bridgwater Photographic Society)

“Like many others, the pandemic has been difficult for us in so many different ways, and what with the ever-increasing costs of insurances, materials, music licences, and medical cover to name just a few, Hinkley Point C’s kind support couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We are really excited about this year’s carnival celebrations, and I have a feeling Bridgwater Carnival 2022 is going to be the biggest and best one yet.”

Hinkley Point C, currently under construction in Somerset, is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK for more than 20 years.

It will supply reliable, low-carbon electricity to power around 6 million homes for 60 years.

The project is vital in the fight against climate change but is also making a positive difference to people and businesses from across the region.

The benefits range from increasing local employment and creating a sustainable regional supply chain, to investing in new training facilities.

Nigel Cann, Hinkley Point C’s delivery director, said: “Like Hinkley Point B before us, Hinkley Point C will be part of this community and its celebrations for a generation.

“I know that many of our staff are themselves personally involved in the unique spectacle of Carnival and it is a real privilege to be playing our part in this year’s event. I’m looking forward to seeing the carts light up the streets of Bridgwater once again.”