Bridgwater Gangs and Features carnival clubs have donated £600 to Mind in Somerset and £600 to Stockmoor Lodge Residents Fund charities on behalf of the audiences from the 2023 Old Folks Shows.
The popular free event, which is organised by Bridgwater Gangs and Features, is held annually to thank local pensioners for their continued help and support and to recognise those who have kept the carnival spirit alive over the years.
The money was raised through charity collections which were held during the three show performances back in March at Bridgwater Town Hall.
Arthur Leigh, the president for Bridgwater Gangs and Features, said: “It was amazing to raise so much money for these two charities which are so very close to our hearts, and I would like to thank every senior citizen who supported the collections.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the many businesses, organisations and individuals who donated raffle prizes for the shows. We really do appreciate and value their continued support and generosity.”
The Stockmoor Lodge Residents Fund provide events and activities for those who live in the Bridgwater based nursing home, and Mind in Somerset raises money for their helplines, support groups and activities within the county.
2023 saw the 59th anniversary of the Old Folks Show, and since the very first performance back in 1962, the event has gone from strength to strength. Even though the show is less serious than the prestigious carnival concerts in terms of content and stage setting, the standards of singing and choreography are very similar. Local carnivalites also help with the stewarding, sound, lighting, compering, backstage arrangements and refreshments at the show under the leadership of concert organiser Wayne Anker.
Since the Old Folks Show restarted in 2022 following the pandemic, the event has raised £2,000 for local charities.
Next year’s Old Folks Show is taking place between Thursday 21 March 2024 and Saturday 23 March 2024 at Bridgwater Town Hall. Ticket information will be released in January 2024.
