Soham Town Carnival: Hundreds celebrate 70th carnival day

The popular family event started with the traditional heavy horse show in the main arena, followed by the judging of a parade of floats and a procession from Holmes Lane through the town to the Recreation Ground. 

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. Pictured is Rainbow Knappett, Theo Chipendo, Flora Hardy and Jake Bullman. (Image: Christopher Scurrah)

This year’s main event was Dangerous Steve’s Fire and Chainsaw Juggling, giant unicycle, ladder balancing and blindfold motorcycle riding in a 'hilarious' and 'dynamic' act full of sensational stunts. 

Stan Hickish from Riding and Skating Ely demonstrated skateboarding and scooter skills and workshops were held by KD Theatre throughout the afternoon teaching singing and performance.

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Christopher Scurrah)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Christopher Scurrah)

On the music stage, The Off-Beats performed the sounds of Ska, reggae and soul, while other acts including The Anecdotes and DJ Greedy G also featured.

In the small arena, Vouge Athletics and Kuk Sool Won demonstrated their skills. 

Other attractions included townsperson of the year, food and trade stalls, and a marching band. 

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Christopher Scurrah)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

A spokesperson from Soham Benevolent Association (SBA) said: “SBA would like to thank everyone who came to support the Soham Carnival and Heavy Horse Show 2023. 

“Firstly, to everyone who visited and made the day a success, and all those who made the day so special: float makers, drivers, bucket collectors, volunteers on the day, pitch and stall owners, horse owners, group demonstrators, singers, actors, musicians, sponsors, stage management and all those working behind the scenes. 

“Thank you and see you all next year.” 

This year PCSO Mags Harvey from the East Cambs Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) attended the carnival.

A spokesperson from Policing East Cambridgeshire said: "The Soham Carnival and Heavy Horse Show has always proven to be a fun, family day out for all ages, and offers fundraising for local charities, groups and associations, and offers exposure for local businesses.

"An ideal event for the East Cambs Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) to engage with members of the local community."

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Christopher Scurrah)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Nicky Still)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)

Hundreds of people enjoyed an action-packed day of food, live music and entertainment at Soham's 70th town carnival on April 30. (Image: Angela Smith)