Community joins together for fun in the sun at annual carnival

Thousands of people enjoyed some fun in the sun as the carnival came to town.
Father v son, Craig and Max (7) of Ryhope, on one of the games at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.Father v son, Craig and Max (7) of Ryhope, on one of the games at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.
Father v son, Craig and Max (7) of Ryhope, on one of the games at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.

The annual Ryhope Carnival went off with a bang at the weekend.

Around 2,000 people attended the event, at Ryhope Recreation Park, in Sunderland.

Ryhope Carnival on SaturdayRyhope Carnival on Saturday
Ryhope Carnival on Saturday
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The annual party was organised by the Ryhope Community Association with the help of funding from the Spirit of 2012’s 14 scheme, which is part of the Olympics.

Paula Hunt, a member of the association, which won the best community event prize at the Echo’s Wow awards two years ago, said: “We had all sorts going on. There was bungee jumping, archery, fencing, football, cricket, face painting, and circus skills, as well as bands performing and singers from the Genfactor finals, a competition organised by Gentoo.

“People even stuck around after the carnival had finished and sat on picnic blankets watching the bands play.

“It was a great success. All together, we had about 2,000 people come down throughout the day – it was absolutely packed.

Ryhope All Stars jazz band entertaing the crowds at the village carnival on Saturday.Ryhope All Stars jazz band entertaing the crowds at the village carnival on Saturday.
Ryhope All Stars jazz band entertaing the crowds at the village carnival on Saturday.
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“Everyone had a great time and there was a fantastic atmosphere. It rained for about 15 minutes but people still stuck around.”

The free event also included fairground rides and stalls for local organisations, such as the WI and over-60s clubs.

Paula added: “Everything at the carnival is totally free and it was so nice to see so many families having fun together. Kids were there with their mams and dads and grandparents and everyone was just enjoying spending time together.

“The only people who profit from the carnival are the community groups who come along to fundraise.

Daisy Miles (3) of Ryhope and her painted face at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.Daisy Miles (3) of Ryhope and her painted face at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.
Daisy Miles (3) of Ryhope and her painted face at Ryhope Carnival on Saturday.
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“We had a big marquee with stalls from groups like the WI and over-60s groups who raise money to help run their organisations throughout the year. It’s a real community event.

“We love organising it every year and we’re already looking forward to doing it again next year.”