Carnival hit by downpour

Rain, rain, rain. This was the story of Rushden carnival last Saturday, when the only part of it that escaped a soaking was the procession through the town’s High Street.

Profits are expected to be at least £200 down on last year, when £700 was distributed to charities.

It seems it takes a lot to get the people of Rushden out in the rain, and judging by the visible attendance in Spencer Park, the carnival did not completely succeed in getting the hold of the armchair and television.

Sad Story

As the umbrellas went up in Spencer Park the loudspeakers began to tell a sad story of cancellations to the afternoon events.

Concerts by Bedford Steel Band, Rushden Temperance and Raunds Temperance Bands were called off; a marionette show by a group from Irthlingborough had to be rehoused; and the open side shows were hit as well, as people preferred to stay in the marquees.

Despite the rain, the organisers never flagged in their efforts to maintain interest and there were several hoarse voices at the end of the day.

The wet was a mixed blessing for Rushden and District Query Motor Club. They provided the main arena event, with Autokhana 66. The cars and crews got up to some incredible antics on the muddy ground, but on the other hand not many people were there to watch.

Two events in the evening which did bring in the crowds were the international wrestling which featured local brothers Ken and Doug Joyce, and a dance to the Detours in the large marquee.

As ever, Wellingborough Model Aero Club gave a fine display of aerobatics, bringing back memories and thoughts of wartime dog fights.