Welcome to the Treasurer’s page.  I am, hopefully, not going to bore you with money talk but it is very important that you are aware of what it takes to put Carnival on the streets over the Bank Holiday weekend. 

I will start with a little about me.  I have been involved with the Preston Caribbean Carnival, as a committee member, for a few years.  This is my second time on the Committee.  I have gone to Carnival for many years but only played Mass once.  When I was younger my family used to be in a Band most years and then stopped.    At that time I enjoyed Carnival as a spectator and going to the dance on the Monday night.  Back then you could just about find a space to dance.  The Caribbean Club used to be buzzing and everybody in Preston and outside went to the Club on the Monday night.  I used to dance until I could hardly walk.  Unfortunately, the younger members of the Caribbean community decided that Carnival was not cool, so they abandoned it for a different life style and the more fashionable night clubs.

It is difficult to organise Carnival.  The Committee is made up of volunteers who are almost all in demanding full time employment.  The time given by Committee members is, therefore, limited to mostly during the nights and at weekends.  Each year we are funded by Arts Council, Lancashire County Council and Preston City Council.  We have a unit within Oyston Mill, with minimal costs for Rates and a monthly service charge.  Even these small costs are sometimes too much for such a small organisation.  We have also been fortunate to obtain sponsorship from some local business and had donations from some small business and individuals in some years.  It is a constant struggle.  We have applied for this year’s funding and are awaiting confirmation. 

We have tried to organise social fund raising events but these are not well attended.  To enable us to attract the younger members of the community we need to stage popular and well know artists.  To do so, we need extra funds.  If you or anyone you know is willing to perform for the price of a few drinks, we will be happy to speak with you.  If you know of anyone who can assist with Lorries for the day, we will be very grateful. 

Carnival is an important part of our heritage and we need more young people participating and helping to organise the event.  If we are not careful, Carnival will disappear and become a forgotten part of Preston’s Caribbean history.  Help to support Carnival by giving your time constructively.  And, just as important, come to Carnival and enjoy the day.

Thank you for reading my first article.  Dian Flannagan.