Burnham-On-Sea MP Ashley Fox has taken the case for Somerset’s carnival tradition directly to Government, meeting with Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth Stephanie Peacock alongside senior members of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee.
The meeting followed Mr Fox raising the issue in Parliament — including a question in the House of Commons and contributions to a Westminster Hall debate — where he highlighted the growing pressures facing long‑running community events.
During the discussion, Mr Fox and carnival representatives Dave Creedy (President), Duncan White (Chairman) and Martin Wasley (Procession Director) outlined the scale and significance of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, the oldest in the UK and the largest illuminated carnival in Europe.
The 2025 event attracted around 150,000 spectators and brings together clubs, charities, schools, businesses and community groups, generating a major boost for the local economy.
However, organisers also set out the increasing challenges they face. These include higher costs linked to new security requirements under Martyn’s Law, rising fuel bills following changes to red diesel rules, and growing insurance costs at a time when fewer providers are willing to cover large outdoor events.
The group suggested several practical steps the Government could take to help safeguard the future of Somerset’s carnivals. These included raising the £2,000 cap within the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme — unchanged since 2016 — and allowing charities to reclaim VAT on essential costs such as medical cover, security and equipment hire, particularly where event income is VAT‑exempt.
Concerns were also raised about disparities in support, with larger city‑based carnivals often able to access funding not available to smaller, volunteer‑run events in towns like Bridgwater.
Ashley Fox said he was pleased to secure the meeting, adding: “This is a major event with deep roots in our community and a real economic benefit to the town. But like many volunteer‑led events, it is facing rising costs and increasing regulation. If we want to protect the future of carnivals like Bridgwater’s, the Government needs to recognise those pressures and offer practical support.”
Bridgwater Carnival President Dave Creedy added: “We are very grateful to Ashley Fox for securing this meeting with the Minister and for being a great supporter and advocate of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival. The costs of running the carnival are greater now than they’ve ever been. There is always extra red tape involved and things we need to keep on top of. We made the point to the Minister, and we hope she gives it genuine consideration.”
The Minister is expected to consider the points raised.
