Carnival's return date to clash with nearby event

An organiser of a carnival returning after a 12-year break said he was not concerned about its date clashing with another in a neighbouring town.

The Seagull Theatre met residents on Sunday to discuss plans to bring back the Lowestoft Carnival in Suffolk.

The event ran for about four decades before it was cancelled in 2013 due to a "lack of support and interest".

It is to be revived on 17 August 2025, the same day as Beccles Carnival, but organiser Des Reynolds said the team was keen to ensure both events were supported.

"We are thrilled there has been so much public support for Lowestoft to have its own carnival in 2025," he said.

"We can appreciate the concern about the date clash with Beccles Carnival but we know the residents of both Lowestoft and Beccles will all support their respective events."

Plans for the Lowestoft Carnival include a parade through parts of the town and stages on Royal Green.

Mr Reynolds, Seagull Theatre's assistant manager, said organising an event on this scale was "massively complex" but organisers would work with the Beccles event team on their marketing and publicity.

"Our carnival will be a celebration of Lowestoft and all the amazing charities and volunteer organisations that do so much wonderful work here," he continued.

"We want local people to have the chance to cheer on the hidden heroes of Lowestoft both past and present, while also celebrating everything that is amazing about our lovely town."

According to Seagull Theatre, more than 30 residents attended the consultation where the plans were unveiled.

Residents were said to be enthusiastic and encouraged the theatre to go ahead with the plan.

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