Pete Takes The Carnival Chains
May 2010
The event’s entertainments officer has taken over the presidential chains, after Doug Robson stepped down following three years in the coveted position.
Pawlett born, Pete, who is married to Jackie and has three children – Paul, Zoe and Amanda, has plenty of carnival experience and has been involved with carnival life since 1964 when he joined Lime Kiln Carnival Club. He was with the popular Bridgwater based club for over 20 years, where he learned his carnival trade and used his artistic skills to specialise in painting the colourful carts and stage sets. Before he left the club, he was made a life member.
Pete joined Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee in 1989, and since then has played an active role in the organisation by holding a number of positions over the 21 years, including catering officer, assistant concerts steward, chief concerts steward and entertainment officer. He was elected to vice president status on the committee in 2006. Away from carnival, Pete is retired and his other hobbies include watching sport, listening to music, going to the theatre and travelling.
After taking over the role, Pete reflected and paid tribute to his predecessor and outgoing president, Doug Robson, and said: “Doug is a great ambassador for everything Bridgwater Carnival stands for, and I have a huge challenge in following in his footsteps. No doubt I will be asking for his help and support as I take on this new role.
Pete added: “I feel extremely proud to have been elected as president of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee, and I will continue to work with our carnival’s greatest asset, the people involved in the clubs and committee, to ensure the continued success of the world’s largest illuminated carnival.
“Carnival is for fun and I have experienced 46 unforgettable years in this wonderful tradition, and I fully intend to enjoy and savour every moment of my three year term presidency.”
Doug Robson remains on the carnival committee as life member and patronage officer.
