Bordon Carnival makes a splash on its return after 30 years

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Whitehill and Bordon on Sunday (October 18) as the town's carnival made a welcome return, despite fears that wet weather might dampen the celebrations.

The event brought the community together for a colourful procession, marking the culmination of months of planning and preparation by local volunteers and organisations.

Organisers praised the turnout, saying the enthusiastic response demonstrated the strength of community spirit across the town.

Cllr Catherine Clark, who spearheaded efforts to revive the carnival, said: “It was absolutely wonderful to see the whole town come out.

“The rain made us a little unsure, but Whitehill and Bordon showed us who we are.

“Hundreds of people turned out to support the floats, and months of preparation finally paid off.”

She thanked the organising committee, local community groups, Kane FM and the organisations that provided financial backing, including East Hampshire District Council, Whitehill Town Council and the Woolmer Forest Lions.

Special thanks also went to Anne Probert of the Woolmer Forest Lions for her contribution to the preparations, said Cllr Clark.

The carnival was officially opened with a speech paying tribute to those responsible for bringing the event back.

Cllr Andy Tree, leader of the Whitehill & Bordon Community Party, said: “I am incredibly proud of my colleague Catherine Clark for not only first proposing to bring back the Bordon Carnival but getting stuck in to actually make it happen.

“Catherine has led from the front and done a great job.”

He also praised Anne Probert for her hard work.

With the carnival's successful return drawing hundreds of supporters, organisers are already looking ahead to next year's celebrations.

Cllr Clarke confirmed that the carnival will return on Sunday, October 17, 2027, giving residents another opportunity to celebrate their town's community spirit.

See this week’s Bordon Herald for more photos.