AFTER 10 years as Liphook Carnival committee chairman, Karen Feeney officially stepped down from her role at last week’s annual meeting.

She said: “It has been a wonderful 10 years, but I feel that someone else should step up and take over as chairman – bringing along some fresh ideas.

“I will still stay on the committee and lend a helping hand to any newcomers and, of course, our regulars. Lots of new people have moved into the village and it would be great for some of them to get involved with the carnival committee.

“We already had a few more volunteers come forward and are hoping that some of the carnival veterans will be making a comeback in the parade this year, which takes place on Saturday, October 28.”

Karen thanked everyone who has been involved in the village carnival over the years and is encouraging new participants to come forward to take part in all categories.

She revealed district councillor Bill Mouland has provided some of his grant money to help finance insurance cover for people wishing to enter the Carnival.

Mr Mouland said: “The three district councillors are always pleased to support the carnival, which not only provides great enjoyment on the night but helps many good causes.

“Of course, it is up to the carnival committee how it spends the grant money we provide, but I thought if people are struggling to put floats together because of costs of vehicle hire, insurance and materials, maybe the money could be channelled specifically towards that.”

The carnival committee is also looking for new ideas and more sponsors to raise funds to put on the annual village event, which now costs in the region on £8,000 to £9,000.

Each year a special award is given to an unsung hero who has supported the carnival for many years, which this year was won by Glenys Kirkpatrick, who looks after the Carnival Queen, Princess and her attendants.

Collections during last year’s parade raised funds for local groups and charities. Little Cherubs Nursery will be using the money they received to teach children computer skills, while Liphook United FC will be putting theirs towards rising costs for equipment and coaching.

Liphook District Guides need to replace some of their equipment and the Over 60s Club is treating its members to a special lunch.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, which relies entirely on contributions, will put the funds it received towards costs of its new night flights and Hampshire Search and Rescue will put its towards running costs.

Methodist Amateur Dramatics (MAD) Company is facing an increase in venue hire costs, since it moved to the Millennium Centre, and will put the money towards costs, while the Methodist Church will continue to provide free soup, coffee and tea for revellers on Carnival and Bonfire Night.

The village hall management committee is using its money for the upkeep of the venue and Bramshott and Liphook Voluntary Care Group towards the running of their meetings at the Millennium Centre.

The Royal British Legion is putting its cash towards the annual Poppy Appeal and the Community Support Laundry, whose service is unique in Hampshire, towards the running costs and to keep prices down and affordable for its elderly clients.

First Liphook Scouts is planning to fund its new Beaver Group, the Peak Centre Trust will be putting the money towards running costs of the Day Centre for the elderly and the Firefighter’s Charity will be supporting rehabilitation and recovery of injured firefighters.