IT’S one of the last carnivals of the year and one of the county’s most historic. And up until a few weeks ago the unthinkable was set to take place with the cancellation of this year’s Harwich Guy Carnival due to repair works.
The carnival has been held in the town for more than 150 years.
One of the biggest events in the port town’s social calendar, it is usually held in October, attracting thousands of spectators.
It is also the biggest fundraiser of the year for Harwich and Dovercourt Rotary Club, raising thousands of pounds for local charities.
Because of on-going work to the town’s sewerage system, in Main Road, residents and councillors feared the carnival might not go ahead, but thankfully the event has been saved with a new date and a new route.
It will now take place on November 28, setting off at 6.30pm from Ainger Road, Dovercourt, and going through High Street, before ending up at West Street, Harwich.
The carnival dates back to 1854, when the town’s workers would take to the streets to mock (or guy) their employers. This still takes place today, with the creation and parading of large papier-mache heads, sometimes featuring local characters.
Judging of the big heads will take place at Fiveways, in Main Road, Dovercourt. Fancy dress judging will take place there too, with all prizes presented in West Street, Harwich.
Collection buckets will be available this Friday and Saturday from 2 Steele House, High Street, Dovercourt, for the charity collection. Organisers are still looking for volunteers to act as marshals.
Anyone interested should call 01255 503145 for details.
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