LEDBURY Carnival Committee is without a chairman and a vice chairman, following last week’s AGM, and a question mark now hangs over the carnival’s future.

The former chairman, Hilary Jones has stepped down from both the chairmanship and the committee, for personal reasons, and she believes that if the August Bank Holiday town spectacular is to endure, fresh blood is needed.

However, the clock is ticking.

Mrs Jones said|of next year’s carnival: “I think we are saying we hope it will happen; but if you haven’t got the people on the ground, there is the possibility it might not happen.

“Every group needs some freshness, to help take things forward.”

The AGM heard that this year’s carnival had been “a resounding success”.

Mrs Jones added: “It was well attended, a great procession with very colourful floats embracing the theme of Ledfest - a celebration of festivals.

“ Just over £2,100 was raised from the bucket collection, and the charities present on the day were pleased with the amounts raised from their fundraising stalls. The entertainment provided on the day was well received.”

Thanks were recorded to everyone who supported the carnival by way of sponsorship, grants, help in kind “and of course everyone who took part”.

Mrs Jones said: “We were pleased that three new committee members were appointed on the night of the AGM and there was interest from other quarters by way of help and support.

“But myself and Clive Jupp retired from carnival after many years and as yet a new chair and vice chair have not been appointed. The new committee will meet in early January and it is hoped by then these two key roles can be filled.

“We do need fresh interest to take the carnival forward and ensure this prestigious event for our market town continues for the next generation.

“There is plenty for people to do, but it is great fun along the way.”

If it happens, the 2019 Ledbury Town Council will be the 45th to take place in the town, since the event’s s revival in the 1970s

Anyone who feels they could help should contact the Carnival Committee secretary Jill Jupp on jill_jupp@hotmail.com or 01531 635129.