A GROUP looking at creating a South Somerset Carnival Park in the Ilminster area is gaining support.

Many Carnival clubs in and around the Ilminster area are finding it increasingly difficult to build their entries due to a lack of available homes.

While the South Somerset Federation of clubs has been successful in recent years on both the local and county Carnival circuits there are fears that some clubs will have to fold unless they can find suitable locations to create their entries.

Rather than wait for this to happen, a local group has been formed with specific aim to reverse the trend.

The South Somerset Carnival Park Committee, which has come from the enthusiasm of local Carnivalites, with representation from town Carnival Committees, clubs and individuals, is now a reality and has momentum enough to find a solution to this issue.

The SSCP Committee is currently engaged in identifying a suitable area to create a Carnival Park. Such locations already exist in other key Carnival towns including Bridgwater and Glastonbury.

Committee joint chairman Steve Dawe, of Ilminster-based Harlequin CC, said: "Our vision based on the model in Glastonbury is to see our local Carnival community united in one location; where we can store, build, develop and grow."

“Carnival touches the lives of very many people in and around Ilminster and has done for decades.

“Clubs range from fledgling family organisations to 100 strong, 40 plus year old established organisations.

“Participants are made up of all ages from the very young to the very old and from almost every background that the local community possesses.”

Fellow joint committee chairman Kym Toms, of Ilminster Carnival, added: “The SSCP Committee is asking for your support and guidance in its endeavours.

“It is our intention to identify the location, follow planning and highway guidance and of course raise the funds needed to achieve the end goal. Your support, and knowledge during this process will of course be invaluable.”

The Carnival group will be out and about over this weekend’s Ilminster Midsummer Experience looking for support.