Tenby Firefighters Carnival will be bursting into life in the town once again tomorrow (Wednesday, August 1).

Main sponsor of the ever-popular event is Tenby House Hotel, with sponsorship also from Tredeml Print Design Studio and Printers, Jago, Qube, CK Roofing and The Normandie.

The carnival always has a special place in the resort’s calendar and never fails to capture the imagination of the crowds that line the route of the procession or the numerous floats and fancy dress competitors taking part. And this year promises to be no exception.

Once again, the main recipient of the money raised by Tenby’s dedicated band of firefighters during the course of the day will be the Firefighters Charity.

The spectacular carnival will undoubtedly be the highlight of a fun-packed day of events for all the family to enjoy.

Festivities kick-off at the fire station in South Parade from 10.30 am. Bacon rolls will be served in the morning and burgers, teas, coffees and cake throughout the day.

“We will be celebrating the 99th anniversary with our open day at the fire station in South Parade during the day and the carnival parade which leaves Station Road at 5.15 pm with judging starting at 4.45 pm from the railway station car park,” said carnival chairman Rhys Thomas.

“The open day is always a buzz of activity at the station and is a great way for us to raise awareness about fire safety and also raise as much money as possible for the firefighters charity.?

“Whether injured, ill or in need of psychological support, the charity exists to support the everyday heroes of the UK fire community.

“There will be plenty of fire safety demonstrations throughout the day, as well as activities, stalls and refreshments. We will also be running our grand raffle. As usual, we are appealing to local businesses and residents for donations of prizes.

“In addition, we are also appealing for donations from local businesses who would like to pledge a financial donation,” he continued.

Following time-honoured tradition, the carnival parade will be held in the early evening, with floats and walking entries being asked to meet at the Railway Station Yard, ready for the parade which will start at 5.15 pm and will wend its way around town.

Anyone and everyone is welcome to enter the carnival and no advance entry is required. Participants must just ensure they are at the station yard between 4.30 and 4.45 pm for the all-important judging.

Leaving from the station, the parade will proceed via Warren Street, South Parade, Belmont Arch, Lower Frog Street, St. George Street, Tudor Square, and St. Julian Street, before finishing at the harbour.

There are carnival classes for under threes, sevens, 11s and adult, with all categories having a £20 first prize, £15 second prize and £10 third prize.

In addition, each child entering the carnival will receive a gift.

The lorry-borne entries, meanwhile, will all be competing for the lucrative £100 prize money for the best decorated float. Second prize is £75 and third is £50.

Also up for grabs is the Marjorie and Bert Ford Perpetual Trophy, plus £50, for the best charity float.

“We know a lot of groups are entering floats, but don’t forget the walking entries too. Get your thinking caps on for ideas and come and join in the fun,” continued Rhys.

“2017 was a very successful year, we managed to raise £5,500, which we donated to the charity, but this was only achievable because of the kind donations from the businesses and locals from the Pembrokeshire area.

“This year’s firefighters carnival is showing signs of being a big a spectacle as last year’s with another high number of floats expected, and we continue to be astounded by the amount of support from local businesses. It just shows how much the town loves this event.

“Sponsors Tenby House also hold their annual charity night on the same evening as the carnival, an event where you can relax and enjoy after a great day.

“We are also delighted to receive the support from our local Sainsbury’s store who has chosen us as their nominated charity, so we thank them for all their support and donations,” continued Rhys.

Tenby Fire Station recently won the Station of the Year award at the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s Celebrating Success awards ceremony, with the award paying homage to the station that has gone above and beyond in their commitment, engagement and service to their respective community.

“Tenby Fire Station was given the award for their central role within the social calendar of the town by staging numerous events such as the resort’s carnival and fire station open day. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that this year’s event is equally as successful!” he added.