Red tape bills stop carnival parade

The street parade at the traditional Bloxwich Carnival is to be axed this year because of new health and safety rulings thought necessary by the authorities.

It would cost more than £2,000 to meet all the regulations, such as employing marshals and ensuring the safety of floats, which organisers say they cannot afford. They will now stage all of the annual event, dating back almost 60 years, at King George V Playing Fields. It comes after the parade of floats at Wombourne Carnival in July was scrapped for the same reasons.

Organisers of Tipton's annual extravaganza were also caught out by the rules.

The parade through the High Street in Bloxwich and into the park has formed part of the traditions of the voluntarily run summer event which regularly attracts more than 5,000 revellers.

It was stopped in 2004 for two years because of legal restrictions on road closures but was able to return over the last few years.

Instead of appearing on floats, community groups will be asked to put up small stages around the park as an alternative.

It is hoped the Carnival Queen, Princess and Rose Bud will be transported down the High Street after she is crowned.

Carnival chairman Ken Worley said the regulations were "barmy".

"It is with much regret there will not be a street parade this year," he said.

"As with many carnivals it has had to be abandoned due to the increasing health and safety regulations, insurance and costs.

"The health and safety regulations are getting barmy, this is the 59th carnival and only the third without the parade.

"It is sad and I know the people of Bloxwich will be upset but there will be an even bigger event on King George V Playing Fields instead."

The event on August 1 will include entertainment from the James Dillon stunt team, Staffordshire dog team, New Washboard Syncopators jazz band, a variety of craft demonstrations and Pat Collins fun fair.