Torches lit up Bridport for a spectacular finale (From Bridport Carnival)

Torches lit up Bridport for a spectacular finale

2:54pm Wednesday 24th August 2011 in News By James Tourgout

A RIVER of fire snaked its way from Bridport to West Bay as thousands of people joined in a stunning torchlight procession.

Carnival committee volunteers sold 1500 torches but an estimated 3,000 people joined in the walk from Bucky Doo Square on Sunday night.

Mayor David Rickard, Mayoress Anne Rickard and long serving councillor Geoff Ackerman lit the first torches and led the procession.

They were met by thousands more at West Bay who packed the beach, harbourside and cliffs to see the procession arrive.

They also watched the Bridport band the Sidekicks perform before an extra special fireworks display to mark the carnival’s 40th anniversary.

Carnival committee volunteers and marshals were again out in force aided by members of the Brit Valley Rotary Club.

Despite funeral director Eric Dunford having fought cancer this year, he built the annual bonfire on East beach with the help of a dedicated team.

They included his grandchildren Jasmine and George Hussey, a member of his staff, David Hobbs, and a neighbour, Stuart King.

The bonfire would not have been possible without the generosity of local companies, who delivered pallets and timber to build the bonfire.

In some cases their staff gave their time for free.

The spectacular bonfire was built for the torchlight procession, fireworks and music on Sunday night at West Bay.

It took about two hours to burn but took three days in all to build.

Once finished, it takes all of Monday to clear the beach.

Eric would like to thank all the carnival committee members for allowing him to carry out the event again and for all their help and support.

His heartfelt thanks go to the harbour master and staff, West Dorset District Council, Delta, Travis Perkins, Mike Fowler, Forest Products, Ackerman Engineering and everyone who gave wood and anyone who has helped in any way. Thanks also go to Lindsey Blair of the Quarter Deck for rounding up members of the Rotary Club of Brit Valley as marshals on the night.

Pc Mike Brown, of Bridport Police, said that there was no arrests for disorder or trouble on Saturday night when bands played in Bucky Doo Square.

He said that the that the torchlight procession was also peaceful, that it was well run and that the road closures went well.

One man, 21, of Bridport, was arrested for possession of controlled drugs in the town centre on Saturday night.

He has been bailed until early September.