Carnival in the Park a Resounding Success

19 July 2009

The sun shone on the estimated 30,000 people of all ages who filled South Park on Sunday for Carnival in the Park, this year’s alternative to the Cowley Road Carnival celebrating diversity in East Oxford. The event was truly representative of the many cultures represented in East Oxford and Oxfordshire, with locals and visitors enjoying the talent of local musicians, dance groups and other performers, food from around the world, and the pleasure of being together.

The procession, made up of 28 schools and community groups decked in fantastic costumes, wound its way down the hill in the park, smiling, dancing and drumming, to the U Dance Festival dance stage for their final bow.

The event was proclaimed a resounding success by many, and the organisers, East Oxford Action Charity, extend their thanks to Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, Arts Council England and MINI Plant Oxford, and to the many volunteers and people who helped out in so many ways, for making it possible.

Carnival attenders commented particularly on the ‘great atmosphere and great entertainment for all ages’, the opportunity to ‘relax and chill out’, and ‘the Carnival friendship, and people coming together, with everyone happy to be here’

East Oxford Action Charity Trustee, Paul Wolf, said: ‘One thing is certain - that the support from volunteers, traders, community members and local organisations is the secret to this success story. We thank you all for your invaluable contribution to this truly community led event.’

Dr Jürgen Hedrich, Managing Director, MINI Plant Oxford said: “We are proud to be supporting this event as Carnival continues to be a really important date in both Cowley and the region’s calendar.”

Editor’s note

For more information, interviews or  high res images contact:
Henrietta Gill
Carnival in the Park Co-ordinator
07941482376
e:henriettagill@googlemail.com
or
Danielle Battigelli
East Oxford Action Charity
01865 251305
carnival@eastoxford.com

Carnival in the Park was organised by East Oxford Action Charity (East Oxford Action Charity, charity no. 1118902)

MINI Plant Oxford contact: Rebecca Baxter, Manager, External Communications, MINI Plant Oxford: Rebecca.baxter@bmwgroup.com

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