I have enjoyed attending the Taunton (and Bridgwater) carnivals since 1979 and it has always been the custom for spectators to show their appreciation by applauding all the entrants - the individual walking entries, majorettes, small and large floats etc but no longer it seems.

On Saturday night in North Street, apart from the civic dignitaries sitting near by, I was the only person clapping- indeed people were looking at me clearly thinking I had taken leave of my senses. 

I tried to encourage others around me to applaud but with no success, unfortunately.

This was so disappointing as all the entrants, stewards and organisers had taken the trouble to make a great effort to turn out on a very wet and windy night but it would appear that society has changed and spectators are now simply “passive recipients” and do not see the need to show their appreciation by applauding the fantastic show that is passing before their eyes.

So come on Tauntonians - young and old - put your hands together and clap at next year’s carnival to give encouragement to all those who have dressed up to take part, or just maybe the Taunton Carnival will cease to exist.

Yours Faithfully,
Nicky Matthews
Taunton

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