Llanfair Carnival Queen chosen

With the Llanfair Caereinion Carnival fast approaching on June 15, organisers have announced both the Carnival Queen and news that Tractor Ted will be playing a starring role.

Out of all the entrants, Fiona Gittins-Coulson (pictured) has been selected as Carnival Queen 2019.

Fiona has grown up locally, living in both Llanfair Caereinion and on a farm on the outskirts of Llanerfyl. Since she was able to walk, Fiona has always loved helping her Dad and Taid on the farm.

She also enjoys her sport and has represented her primary school in athletics and, when in Air Cadets in Welshpool, she took part in Netball and Hockey tournaments and went on to represent Mid Wales in Hockey. Fiona has also taken part in the “Race For Life” four times.

“I have always loved Llanfair Carnival as, when I was younger, my cousins and I always used to compete in fancy dress,” she said. “It is an event I look forward to every year as it is an amazing time for the whole community to come together and I am honoured to be chosen as this year's Queen.”

The Queen and her eight attendants will arrive in Llanfair Caereinion on the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway (WLLR), where they will join the Carnival parade and travel through the town on the beautifully decorated Queen’s Float. The Carnival is indebted to the WLLR who have very kindly carried on a Carnival tradition that started in the 1930s.

The Queen’s eight attendants are from local schools and are Amy Heath, Saskia Davies, Bella Fitzgerald, Beca Chapman Jones, Oscar Jones, Mark Conlin, Alfie Sankey and Jack Powell.

The Carnival Committee would like to thank everyone who put themselves forward as a candidate for the Carnival Queen or one of the Queen’s Attendants and encourage those who missed out to join participants of all ages the parade in fancy dress or on one of the Carnival floats.

Meanwhile, Tractor Ted has been confirmed for the Carnival!

The little green tractor has wowed millions of children over the years with his real life farm stories which are told in a fun, educational and totally charming manner. All stories are told with young children in mind as they are introduced to what is happening on the farm from potato harvesting to milking the cows.

Tractor Ted will have lots of activities on the carnival field including ‘welly wanging’, a digger den, Tractor Ted bouncy castle, a driving track and an activity trail.

But Tractor Ted is just one of the attractions at the Carnival which is once again pleased to welcome the Cambria Band and Powys Dance.

There will be children’s races, cheerleading from the Cosmic Cheerleaders, music, dance and non-stop entertainment on the field.

This year sees lots of new stalls with a mix of charity, local community and local craft, art and jewellery makers.

“This year we welcome a number of new stallholders who sell beautifully crafted products and organisations that will help you bring out your inner artist or show your sporting prowess,” said a spokesperson.

“The Carnival will also have a new food court which will include food from Banwy Bakery plus burgers, ice cream, donuts from and sweet treats. The bars include a new gin and prosecco bar and craft beer bar which are both hosted in converted horse boxes.

“For many, the best bit of the carnival is the opportunity to wear fancy dress either individually or on a themed float and the Back to the 1980s theme gives everyone a lot of scope! We are looking forward to the entries.”

The Carnival Committee will be announcing the final running order next week.