The city of Wells is mourning the loss of a beloved local figure after the passing of Maurice Day, the long-standing president of the Wells City Carnival and a cornerstone of the town's carnival community. Maurice, who dedicated over five decades to making the annual event a highlight of the community calendar, passed away this week, leaving a huge gap in the hearts of residents and carnival-goers alike.

Tributes have been pouring in from across the region, with many describing him as a "carnival legend" whose impact stretched far beyond Wells. The November carnival will be the first without Maurice's presence, a stark reminder of his incredible legacy.

The Wells City Carnival committee shared their grief in a heartfelt statement: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Maurice Day, president of Wells City Carnival. Maurice was a cornerstone of our community, playing a vital role in making the carnival a cherished event for all to enjoy for more than 53 years. His dedication and enthusiasm will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Josie and the entire Day family. Maurice's legacy will live on through the carnival and the many lives he touched. He will never be forgotten."

Maurice's time at the helm included many highlights, with one of the most memorable being the chance to meet Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Wells in 2022. He was widely known and respected throughout the area for his tireless efforts to promote and develop the carnival, which has grown into one of the most significant events on the local calendar.

Carnival clubs across the region have been paying tribute to Maurice's passion and contributions. The Globe Carnival Club of Wells, where Maurice was a regular supporter, shared: "On behalf of all at Globe Carnival Club, we are very saddened to hear of the passing of Maurice Day. Maurice's dedication to carnival will never go unnoticed; he always had the biggest smile and pride as Wells carnival day came. A true carnival legend and a great friend to many in Globe. We will certainly raise a glass for you this season."

The Masqueraders Carnival Club echoed these sentiments, highlighting the deep connection Maurice had with their members and the wider carnival community: "It feels like we are having to make posts like this far too often in recent times, but this is another one that really hits deep. Many of Maurice's close family are key members of our club, spanning multiple generations, and he supported our club in any way possible, whether through fundraising at events like Glastonbury Festival or serving hot meals down the shed in the lead-up to carnival. Attendance was always higher when people knew he was putting on a spread! Our club, our community, and our 'hobby' will not be the same without him."

The Gorgons Carnival Club in Wells also paid tribute: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of another carnival legend. Maurice would always support any prize draws or raffles we had, and cheer the club on in November during carnival. It is not just a big loss to Wells Carnival Committee, but he will also be deeply missed by all of the Wells clubs and the entire carnival community."

Beyond his role in the carnival, Maurice was a long-time supporter of Street Football Club. The club shared their sadness in a statement, saying: "Everyone at Street FC is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of long-term supporter Maurice Day. Maurice has been a part of Street Football Club for many years and will be remembered for literally bringing the music to the party. He will be truly missed around the club. We are sending lots of love to Josie and all the family at this very sad time."

As the town prepares for this year's carnival, it will undoubtedly be a bittersweet event. Many have expressed that it will not be the same without Maurice, but it will be a poignant reminder of the dedication and passion of a man who did so much to shape the spirit of Wells.