Carnival boosts town trade

Carnival time at Wells is putting cash into the coffers of the town's traders as the jolly jamboree makes the cash tills jingle.Hundreds of holidaymakers have been enjoying the fun-filled carnival while giving a much-needed economic boost to the town's shops, guest houses and caravan sites.

Carnival time at Wells is putting cash into the coffers of traders as the jolly jamboree gives the town a commercial boost.

Hundreds of holidaymakers have been enjoying the fun-filled event while giving a much-needed economic boost to shops, guesthouses and caravan sites.

One of the highlights of the week was Tuesday's Funquay Day which saw a traffic-free quayside turned into an al fresco summer market with stalls selling locally-produced foods and crafts.

Carnival committee chairman Patrick Weston said: "Wells really comes alive during this week and we have aimed at putting together a programme to offer something for everyone, from bingo to beach party and from jumble sale to juggler's workshop.

"You have only got to look at how busy Staithe Street, the town's main shopping area, is this week to realise that the cash tills are ringing and that can only be good for everyone."

Carnival vice-chairman Shirley Golding said the town had been almost at capacity in terms of bed- and-breakfast vacancies and touring caravan sites.

Today sees another busy day of events including gillying for crabs on the quayside, robot workshops in the Maltings and the sandcastle building competition. Tonight, an open-air performance by tribute band The Queen's is expected to attract a big crowd to the Buttlands.

The week culminates in tomorrow's Carnival Day.