Tuesday 14 August 2012

Oh, what a night

Deb and Rich and I turned up for Falmouth carnival on Saturday dressed in black suits and white shirts (that's me on the right with my top hat used to collect money), as the band accompanying the Titanic as it went down. Deb and Rich had violins (Rich hadn’t told his daughter that he’d pinched her violin), and I took a pair of handbells that I’d bought at a car boot sale in Exeter about 20 years ago. (I can remember Av looking at them in amazement. “What do you want to buy those for?” she said. “I’ve no idea,” I said cheerfully. And in fact they’ve sat in the flat ever since. See, Av? I knew they’d come in useful one day…)

I’d never thought that taking part in a carnival could be such fun, and hundreds of people turned out to see us, despite a sudden downpour. We were following the Hooverettes, a group from the Seven Stars (pub), mostly blokes, dressed as char ladies who were brilliant, complete with hoovers and overalls, brilliant makeup and saggy, baggy stockings.

Finally we made it to the Watersports Centre at the other end of town where we got a drink and a well earned burger. The atmosphere was amazing – everyone was having such a good time and it wasn’t just alcoholic bonhomie (though there was quite a bit of that). There was a real sense of fun and involvement and I loved it, all the more because it was my first carnival and I collected a lot of money.


A few of us wandered back through town to have a quick drink outside the Seven Stars, then headed back to the Star and Garter, where the marine band and everyone gathered. I wandered home later, dressed in my top hat and ringing my handbells, filled with a happy glow. And no, it wasn’t just the wine...

Oh, and a quick PS. Had several lovely comments about my walks book. They really made my day....


16 comments:

Jane Lovering said...

It all sounds like the most fantastic fun - I wish they still had carnivals around here. I remember fondly Exeter carnival, watching the floats go by... Anything that brings a community together is a good thing (plus, you all looked great in your suits).

Flowerpot said...

It was brilliant, Jane - a real tonic! Rich looked very smart in his suit - mine was a navy blue jacket and black Asda trousers but dont think anyone noticed!

Talli Roland said...

Oh, that looks like so much fun! Love the top hat.

Flowerpot said...

It was great - so was the hat - for which I take no credit whatsoever...

Melissa Amateis said...

It sounds so lovely! We really don't have anything like that here in Nebraska!

Flowerpot said...

Melissa - what a shame! Though I'm sure you have lots of other things..

Sally said...

Sounds like a fabulous event! Cornwall is really very good at all these Festivals/Carnivals!
Having fun starting to do the walks in your book. I need another copy too! For my sister-in-law for her birthday - when I next see you. xx

Akelamalu said...

Sounds like a great day FP and even more because you collected a lot of money for a great cause. :)

Chris Stovell said...

It's lovely seeing a bit more of you, Sue - that's a lovely shot of you sitting there smiling. I think I would baulk at the idea of taking part in a carnival, but you've given me an idea of how much fun it could be!

Unknown said...

Sounds like you had a fantastic time and I'm glad you finally found a reason for buying those hand bells.

Rena George said...

Living in Cornwall sounds like a lot of fun when you and your best mates are around. Thanks for sharing.xx

Flowerpot said...

It is good fun Rena - glad you enjoyed it!

Flowerpot said...

Debs - yes I knew there'd be a reason!

Flowerpot said...

Hi Chris - yes it's one of the few pictures of me I don't mind!

Flowerpot said...

Ak - yes always good to colllect money for a good cause.

Flowerpot said...

Sally - so glad you are enjoyng the walks. ANd of course you can have another copy for your SIL! xx