SIR,

Please may we publicly thank everyone who helped make Monmouth Carnival 2013 a classic?

It takes a year of preparation, but we hope everyone who played a part felt they were loudly and spontaneously appreciated on the day.

We worked with our local police, PCSOs, MCC Highways, the Fire Service, St John's Ambulance and Debbie McCarty, to ensure safety.

Freedom from traffic relied on the patience and understanding of visiting and resident drivers. Special thanks are also due to everyone who normally parks within the road closure area on a Sunday.

As ever, the extraordinary hard work and experience of the festival volunteers led by Les Modget, chair of the Festival Committee, ensured security for everyone, so we could concentrate on enjoying ourselves.

Safe places to assemble (off Dixton Road and in St Mary's churchyard), were possible, only with the help of the leisure centre staff and Canon David McGladdery with St Mary's Church team.

Emma of Priory Street donated a magnificent bouquet of pinks and purples, especially designed for The Spirit of Monmouth winner, Mrs Ena Lightly.

Emma's husband, Tim, had co-ordinated the stalls and entertainment. Richard Evans graciously chauffeured Ena in his stunning red MG.

John Blake initiated and donated two new perpetual prizes: the Best Vintage Vehicle Shield and the Best-Dressed Walker Cup.

These and the original cup for the Best Carnival Float were kindly displayed in Timpson's window.

Tourist Information staff and Chris Were greatly improved our publicity. Thank you all.

Only the very brave will agree to undertake judging of the classes and we are extremely grateful to Rudolph Griffiths and the Mayor, Jeana Hall. The decisions were difficult because the quality of entries was so high.

Whether you were part of the magnificent procession in your costume, your vintage vehicle or your decorated float, or simply part of the huge crowd that lined the route, thank you.

Newest member of the group, Rob Campbell, was the source of many excellent ideas this year. If you would like to join the planning meetings for Carnival 2014, please call 07762468903.

Monmouth Carnival Group

(supported by The Community Affairs Committee of Monmouth Town Council, in partnership with Monmouth Festival)