Remembering Prudhoe Town Fair and Haltwhistle Carnival

Whether it be a ride on the bucking bronco or a Spice Girls tribute act, men and women, young and old are always keen to be involved in celebrating all that is great and good about our towns.

Locals took it back to the 90’s at Haltwhistle Carnival Parade. (Image: Paul Norris)

This week, we take a trip down memory lane as we remember times passed and look forward to future events.

In 2016, record crowds flocked to Prudhoe to enjoy all the fun of the fair.

Organisers estimated around 7,500 people filled Front Street on June 5, topping 2015's figure by 2,000.

Haltwhistle Carnival Parade, left to right, Brandon Kirby, Kassidy Bell, Jessica Love, Ruby Pearson, and Brandon Pattinson-Davison. (Image: Paul Norris)

Similarly, in 2019, the sun shone on Haltwhistle as visitors flocked to the biggest event in the town’s social calendar.

vehicles passing Haltwhistle (Image: Paul Norris)

The weekend kicked off with a traditional duck race, treasure hunt and annual children’s party, while Sunday saw the return of the always highly anticipated float parade, where onlookers took to the streets to watch vehicles of all shapes, colours and sizes make their way through the town centre from the fire station, led by a procession of Northumbrian pipers, followed closely by carnival princess Jessica Love and her royal attendants.

Prudhoe Town Fair filled the town with cheer (Image: Moira Wooldridge.)

Amongst them was a group of Peaky Blinders and flapper girls causing a stir in the Garrison public house and a 90s disco party complete with Mr Blobby. But it was a group of eccentric circus performers from The Greatest Showman who judge Dr Derek Thompson picked as the winner, and they took home the trophy for best overall float.

Prudhoe's Front Street was filled with fairground rides and stalls. (Image: Moira Wooldridge.)

The carnival field was buzzing with fairground attractions, vintage vehicles donkey rides and Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling.

In March 2019, it was announced that Haltwhistle Carnival would not go ahead that year - for the second year running.

Scouts, Beavers Cubs and Brownies joined the Dragon Tale Theatre Group in the colourful procession. (Image: Debbie Young)

Organisers said at the time they hoped to run some smaller events if restrictions allow later in the year.

Miniature ballerinas from the Elaine Pygall School of Dancing take centre stage at the Glade. (Image: Moira Wooldridge.)

If you're anything like us, you'll be counting down the days until these much-loved events are back this year!