CARNIVALITES in Bridgwater are celebrating after a new road in the renowned carnival town has been named Squibbers Way.

Inspired by the famous tradition which is unique to Bridgwater and annually brings the carnival celebrations to a spectacular end, Squibbers Way

won a public vote after Somerset County Council asked for help in naming the new Colley Lane Southern Access Road in the town.

More than 250 individual nominations were originally received for the new road, and these were eventually whittled down to a shortlist of six before going before a public vote, which closed on Sunday, August 18.

In total 2,728 people took part in the vote, and Squibbers Way was the outright winner after attracting 59 per cent (1,616 votes) of the votes.

Cllr John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This new road will make such a difference for local people so it’s only right they should have the final say in choosing its name.

“Thank you to everyone who suggested a name or took the trouble to vote.

"Many bright ideas were put forward but carnival is so important to the town that Squibbers Way was always likely to be a strong favourite.

“I think it’s an excellent choice and very much look forward to opening Squibbers Way later this year.”

Mike Crocker, president of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee, said “I am delighted with the news, and this goes to show just how proud local people are of Bridgwater Carnival and its colourful history.

“Our carnival and its associated activities continue to increase in popularity every year, and having a road named after our squibbing tradition is fantastic recognition. I would like to personally thank everybody who voted for Squibbers Way.”

Squibbers Way is being built by contractors Whitemountain and will open in the autumn and will provide a much-needed link between Marsh Lane and Parrett Way. The road includes two new bridges – the Crossways Bridge over the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal and the Somerset Bridge over the River Parrett, which at 52 metres long is the longest single span bridge in Somerset.