A 102-year-old carnival in North Cornwall is at risk of falling apart as its committee struggles to find members.

Bude Carnival has been providing fun for all the family for generations, cementing itself as a staple occasion in the calendars of Bude residents, and in 2024 will be entering its 102nd year.

However, the event’s organisers have expressed that it could be one of its last if it doesn’t find more supporters and committee members.

Reaching out the public, a committee spokesperson said: “Urgent help required!

“Unless new committee members or organisation is found asap to organise the Bude Carnival it’s with great regret that it will not be able to be held this year.

“Last year was extremely hard for us losing members and support from the local community.”

Many members of the committee have been working for ten years or more within the group, organising the event each year.

However, after losing some members, the committee now finds itself in a difficult situation, needing a treasurer, secretary, and chairman.

As well as this, the event has struggled to gain the necessary financial support in recent years. Sarah Miller, chairlady of the group explained that last year’s event was run at a loss.

Speaking to the Post, she said: “The current long-standing committee have done a brilliant job but we feel that new ideas and enthusiasm are much needed. It would also be fantastic if we could receive more support from the local community and businesses.

“Last year was a real struggle for us and unfortunately resulted in a financial loss which was devastating as we were unable to donate our profit to local charities as we always have done .

“The carnival is a great day for Bude and generates a lot of extra income for local businesses and pleasure for all those who take part, so it would be a huge shame for it to stop, but we simply need more help and participants.”

While there has been some positive response from the community following the group’s appeal, the vacant roles require year-round attention.

Sarah continued: “Future committee members are required for secretarial, treasurer and chair positions, fund raising, royalty and road management. Support is available from the current committee.”

The group has also invited the support of local businesses in order to fund this year’s event.

For more information, or to express an interest in supporting the event, email: [email protected]