Veteran of 50 carnivals in Torridge town presents proceeds to charities

A ‘half century veteran’ of Bideford Carnival was guest of honour at this year’s presentation of the proceeds to local charities and good causes.

This year, June Upton took part in her 50th Bideford Carnival - her first was in 1970 as a walking entrant and she has since walked all the various carnival routes for a full 50 carnivals in the town since then.

Bideford Carnival Committee hosted its annual presentation at Bideford Reds Rowing Club and asked June to attend as guest of honour.

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After presenting the cheques, June spoke with all the organisations and committee members there and explained that her favourite costume was when she was dressed as a clown!

When asked why she has taken part in so many carnivals, she said it was because all generous donations from the public go back to deserving local good causes.

Above: Bideford Carnival veteran June Upton of 50 carnivals with carnival treasurer Jade Quick and chair Jude Gubb. Credit: Graham Hobbs

The organisations that received larger donations were Harbour Bideford, Families in Grief and Pete's Dragons.

All three explained their work was greatly needed in the area and the donations would go towards one-to-one support for the people they work with, group activities and in the case of Harbour Bideford, food parcels, emergency supplies for rough sleepers and warm clothing.

Youth Theatre said they would use their donation for their upcoming production of Into the Woods. Other donations went to Barnstaple Town Youth Band, Barnstaple Town, Tiverton Town, Tarka Starlights and Torridge Elite Majorettes and the Bideford Detachment C Company Army Cadets.

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The total raised and being donated this year amounts to £1,150.

The next Bideford Carnival will be on Saturday, September 12, 2026.