WORCESTER’S revived carnival will be held in memory of a much-loved former freeman of the city, organisers have revealed.
The revamped carnival, to be held on July 1, will be held in memory of the late Mike Layland, “Mr Worcester” who was chairman of the old carnival for 27 years.
Mr Layland died in April at the age of 81 after a lifetime of service to the people of Worcester including 44 years as a councillor.
The popular character was known and loved for his many accomplishments in the city, though the carnival is something he is always readily associated with.
At its peak, the carnival had over 100 floats in the parade under Mike’s leadership and the new man in charge, Carnival President Coun Alan Feeney wants to try and build up to the same levels of success.
“Mike was a one-off. He was a guide, an inspiration and a friend. I was devastated when he passed away,” he said.
“We spoke regularly about bringing the carnival back and Mike gave me lots of feedback and encouragement. I know he was looking forward to it.”
“Whilst talking to Mike we both agreed that times have moved on considerably since he was in charge with more health and safety regulations and many of the companies that used to take part are now gone.
“He was also intrigued to find that we have a new layout of the carnival as it is taking place throughout the city centre rather than on Pitchcroft as it always used to.
“Through all of it though, Mike had that trademark smile of his and he knew that we would do a great job. This Carnival will do him proud,” he added.
The much loved former Mayor will also be immortalised in the new organisation as the top carnival prize for the best float will be titled as the Mike Layland Memorial Trophy.
“It is a lasting tribute to the man who made the carnival such a great event in its heyday. We intend to bring about a new heyday for Worcester Carnival and so long as I keep Mike’s advice in mind, we cannot go wrong,” Coun Feeney added.
Worcester Carnival will be held on Saturday, July 1 from 10am to 8pm in the city centre, starting with the crowning of the new Carnival Queen.
There will be a funfair, community acts, fun trade stalls as well as the centrepiece parade at 2pm.
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