Aldeburgh Carnival procession ended the weekend of fun

Film characters, a pirate, a fitness class and a Brazilian-style samba group kept the crowds entertained as they wound their way around a sun-drenched Aldeburgh during the last carnival for Judy Gowen, who is retiring after starting in 1974.

This year's theme was "Absolutely 80s" to mark eight decades of carnival fever.

The parade was the culmination of a weekend of fun and festivities that began on Saturday with a Music Day, which was followed by duck races on the Saturday and Sunday.

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The Brazilian-style samba band at the Aldeburgh Carnival procession (Image: Newsquest) There was also a display of giant kites outside the Wentworth Hotel in Wentworth Road, with illuminated kites flying at dusk.

On Sunday, there was a Sports Day with a 10k "Mini Marathon," Egg Boat Race, a Punch and Judy show, a Treasure Hunt and Silent Auction.

READ MORE: Aldeburgh Carnival announces 80s theme for 2024 event

To accompany Monday's procession, there were arts, crafts, food and drink stalls near the Moot Hall.

Aldeburgh Carnival Swim races trophy winners from L-R - Humphrey Gillett-Andrew Page-Aldeburgh Mayor (TJ Haworth) -Lilly Hensby- Molly Dixon (Image: Tony Pick)

Humphrey Gillett, Andrew Page, Lilly Hensby and Molly Dixon all triumphed in this year's swim races and received their trophies on the beach.

Aldeburgh Carnival Swim races trophy winners from L-R - Humphrey Gillett-Andrew Page-Aldeburgh Mayor (TJ Haworth) -Lilly Hensby- Molly Dixon (Image: Tony Pick)

Crowds gathered near the Moot Hall to watch Aldeburgh Carnival (Image: Newsquest) Judy reflected on how the carnival was "on its knees" when she became secretary because "everybody had found foreign holidays," but had since blossomed into a successful community event.

However, she said her time had not been without its challenges, particularly the complications caused by health and safety and insurance.

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Aldeburgh's RNLI crew at the Carnival. (Image: Tony Pick)

Such has been her dedication to the event that her husband Dudley quipped upon marrying her in 1977 that he had "not just married Judy Gowen, but also Aldeburgh Carnival".

Indeed, she has received the British Empire Medal in recognition of her efforts, which have seen more than £200,000 raised for local organisations.

She said: "In 1967, we literally had no funds.

"The procession was a very small and sad affair and it is a pleasure to see it build and build to where it is today and it is a pleasure to raise the money for the community," Judy said.

She will be handing over to Sally and Simon Watts.

The Mayor of Aldeburgh, Cllr TJ Haworth-Culf paid tribute to the stalwart secretary who has even written a 27 page book about the carnival's history.

Mrs Haworth-Culf said: "Previously recognised for her commitment to the carnival and community with a British Empire Medal, Judy has impeccably performed the role of Secretary from 1976.  Ably supported by her husband Dudley, Judy has loyally guided the carnival along the journey, through the pandemic, and in 2018 aiding the carnival to win the Norfolk & Suffolk Tourism Award for Family Event of the Year.  

"Co-ordinating the Carnival, a year-round occupation, and one we know Sally, with her husband Simon, are able and willing to give their all to.  They have remarkably big shoes to fill, but we are confident they and the hardworking committee will make a wonderful job of it. 

"Judy, words will never be enough to convey our thanks to you. Thank you on behalf of the committee but thank you from everyone that has enjoyed one or many carnivals over the years."