Carnival goers in Wells will be able to make digital donations this year.

As less and less people are now carrying cash, organisers have decided to make it possible to give money by scanning a QR code on a smartphone.

The last carnival in Wells took place three years ago in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic. And organisers are keen to ensure that this year's event is a roaring success.

But the carnival relies on fundraising and charitable donations, and with fundraising largely halted during the pandemic, and costs continuing to rise, donations from the public are more important than ever.

To make it even easier for people to donate, the QR code has been created. The code can be scanned by most smartphones and will take users straight to a website where they can donate £2, £3 or £5. You can also make a donation HERE

For those who still prefer to donate cash, collectors will be out and about on the route during the parade as usual.

The carnival takes place on November 18. It will begin at 7pm, and finish with the famous Jubilee cart that travelled to London as part of Queen Elizabeth II's jubilee celebrations.

Wells Carnival Committee is also keen to hear from businesses who may be able to offer sponsorship for the event. Anyone interested in sponsoring should email Carnival President Maurice Day on [email protected] or call 07383 978470.

Examples of some of the annual costs of Wells Carnival for 2022:

• Insurance £1,700

• Road closures £1,400 (paid by carnival for this first time this year)

• A bill from the police is also expected for the first time this year

• Renting halls and feeding judges and stewards £500/£600

• Barriers £800

• Radios £750