Crowds flock to Soham for fun filled day of entertainment at the 63rd annual Carnival and Heavy Horse Show

Hundreds of people came out in force on Bank Holiday Monday to mark the 63rd annual Soham Carnival and Heavy Horse Show – despite some very dubious weather.

Organised by the Soham Benevolent Association, the carnival and show saw a packed day of fun and games on the town’s recreation ground, in Fountain Lane.

Organisers said on social media: “Wow! What a day. The weather was unkind but at least it didn’t rain.

“A huge thank you to all those who came to the carnival, took part in the parade, helped on floats, stalls or just behind the scenes. We couldn’t do it without you.”

Among the days entertainment was the heavy horse show in the main arena, featuring classes for all breeds and The Mighty Smith Strong Man Show, hosted by three-time World’s Strongest Man Adrian Smith, who tore up catalogues, bent nails and walked on broken glass before presenting the children’s tug of war competition.

Then the carnival float parade made its way from Townsend through the town to the Recreation Ground, whilst on the skate park there was all-day BMX, skateboard and scooter competitions.

Further entertainment came from a wood carver, Sammy Magic Magic, a beer tent, BBQ, majorettes, raptor foundations displays, trade and food stalls, Punch and Judy, carnival princess, local organisations, cub carts, inflatables, ACF Marching Band, a funfair, bygones display and much more.

There was also a live music stage hosted by Blueshed Productions, which featured local band The 142s and a last minute performance from Michael White who stood in when another band pulled out at the last minute. The day was rounded off with a show from ska band The Off Beats.

One resident said: “It was a fantastic day out and although it was a little bit cold, everyone looked like they were having a good time.”