Burnham-On-Sea MP Ashley Fox has spoken in Parliament to champion the future of Somerset’s carnivals, highlighting their cultural importance and the pressures currently facing organisers.
Speaking during a Westminster Hall debate, the MP praised the long-standing tradition of carnival across Somerset, noting that Bridgwater proudly hosts the oldest Guy Fawkes carnival in the country, with roots stretching back to the early 1600s.
Hepaid tribute to the hundreds of volunteers who make the events possible each year — from those building the carts to those organising fundraising and logistics behind the scenes.
However, the MP has warned that rising costs are placing increasing pressure on carnival organisers.
He highlighted higher insurance premiums, growing regulatory requirements, fuel costs and limits on VAT relief for charitable activity as key challenges that are “building year on year.”
He urged ministers to recognise the value of carnivals not only as a cultural tradition, but as a major driver of tourism, a source of charitable fundraising and a way of engaging people of all ages in community life. He called for cross‑party work to ensure the events can continue for generations to come.
Mr Fox adds: “Bridgwater is proud to be the home of carnival, with a tradition that stretches back over 400 years and continues to bring our community together every year. These events do not happen by accident. They rely on hundreds of volunteers who give their time, raise funds and put in months of work to make carnival the success that it is.”
“But the cost of putting on these events is rising, and that is putting real pressure on organisers. We need to make sure this tradition is protected and supported so it can continue long into the future.”
