Bridport Carnival and Torchlight Procession returns

Hundreds of people turned out for the events

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 24th Aug 2022

Bridport's Carnival and Torchlight Procession has returned to the town, after a two year break for the pandemic.

It's been a popular addition to the local calendar with hundreds of people turning out for the activities on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st August.

The Torchlight Procession in particular faced some potential problems, due to a closure of the A35 Crown Roundabout, which the procession would take in.

Chris Loder MP, Town Crier John Collingwood and Bridport Mayor Ian Bark led the procession on Sunday night (21st August)

West Dorset's MP Chris Loder has been pushing for a plan to ensure the event could go ahead.

The Conservative says he 'recognised the importance of the Torchlight to the Carnival and the culture of Bridport more widely'.

The relevant parties sourced a new contractor to manage the closure.

West Dorset's MP Chris Loder (top left), with the Town Crier and Mayor of Bridport, along with the Carnival Prince, Princess and Attendants

Mr Loder said:

“Bridport Carnival and Torchlight is a fantastic local event attracting people from all around West Dorset and beyond – I spoke to people at the event who had come from miles around!

"For me, to see the Torchlight back on and a roaring success after such uncertainty over its future and months of hard work by the many people involved was a resounding win for Bridport. I would like to congratulate the Bridport Carnival Committee with such a magnificent event."

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