Malmesbury Carnival has received a cash boost ahead of its official opening from Persimmon Homes.

The Carnival Committee has received a £1,000 donation from Persimmon Homes Wessex as part of its Community Champions scheme.

Persimmon makes £64,000 a month available to fund local community initiatives across the UK.

The carnival is run by the local community and depends entirely upon the work of volunteers to ensure its success.

With a hundred year history, the event now draws in around 5,000 people throughout August to see the open gardens, bands and parade.

Paul Overton, from the carnival, said: “Recognising the positive impact the carnival will have on the community this year, we’re planning around 35 events but building in flexibility to accommodate the latest Covid restrictions.

“We’re aiming to include the hugely popular Events of Procession, Petticoat Lane, Music in the Cloisters and a wide range of talks, walks and evening events.

“We’ve had detailed discussions with Wiltshire Council and the Police and have received both positive encouragement and useful advice from these organisations.

“We’re still planning to deliver a full blown carnival and festival throughout August culminating in our Procession Day on Saturday 4th September.” 

In 2019, Persimmon supported the carnival by donating money to help them host over 40 events and make grants of nearly £20,000 to local causes.

Paul added: “We have a great relationship with Persimmon Homes and we’re absolutely delighted with this £1,000 donation.

“Without the support of sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to deliver such a great carnival and increase the amount we can grant to local causes every year.” 

Pauline Fletcher, sales director at Persimmon Homes Wessex, said: “Malmesbury Carnival is a brilliant community event and we’re extremely proud of our long-standing relationship with Paul and the team.

“Every year the programme gets better and better which is testament to the time, effort and planning from everyone involved.

“It’s great to hear so many people have come forward to volunteer because the plan for this year is really exciting and I’m sure it will be another great success.”

For more information visit www.persimmonhomes.com, or to apply for Community Champions funding visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity.