Saturday saw hundreds of people lining the streets of Ashington as Horsham’s Boom Samba band led the Carnival parade through the village on the way to the 2014 Ashington Festival. Over 20 colourful floats and walking groups formed the parade which also included dancers, bands and vintage vehicles. Extra entertainment provided along the route ensured a fantastic party atmosphere amongst the crowds as they waited for the parade to pass.
The Carnival finished on the Playing Fields where Festival goers were treated to a full programme of entertainments throughout the afternoon and evening. The winner of the carnival floats were the MacKinnon family with “The Greatest Show on Earth” and the winner of the walking groups were the Hillcrest Horses with “The Lego Movie”.
The arena was home to fabulous animal acts “Olivants Equine” and “Flying Falcons” as well as children’s entertainer “Tom Foolery” and local teenage band “Route 42”. As the sun began to set a fantastic music show began led by the wonderful “Silver Beatles”, tribute band “Curves Aloud” and Sussex band “Speedboatz”. Comedy was provided by Britain’s got Talent act “Drew Cameron”.
All of this together with Harris Brothers Funfair a fun dog show, classic cars, market and charity stalls, car boot sale, flower show and miniature railway and at 10pm was a fantastic firework display which added up to ensure that the 2014 Festival was one of Ashington’s best and most successful ever.
