RESIDENTS across Tameside are being invited to take part in what organisers hope will be the largest and most colourful parade in the history of Stalybridge Carnival.
The annual event celebrates its golden anniversary this year, with organisers aiming to recruit at least 150 volunteers to help bring the milestone procession to life when it returns in June.
People of all ages can sign up to take part in the parade itself as drummers, dancers, brass and reed players or puppeteers. Others can volunteer behind the scenes as part of the carnival crew helping to deliver the event on the day.
No previous experience is required for most roles, with training provided by Mossley-based carnival arts organisation Global Grooves. The sessions are being supported by funding from Historic England through the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund.
Volunteers will take part in creative workshops and rehearsals starting in mid-March at Stalybridge Civic Hall, with opportunities to learn carnival skills, meet new people and help create a new parade performance to mark the 50-year milestone.
Organisers say the programme will include monthly band and dance rehearsals, puppet training weekends and workshops for volunteer crew members. The finished piece will be entirely “volunteer-powered”, celebrating half a century of the town’s carnival tradition.
Ian Cochrane, of the Stalybridge Festival Committee, said: “Stalybridge Carnival has always belonged to the people of this town. For 50 years it has brought us together in celebration and community spirit.
“We want this anniversary year to be the best ever. Bigger, better and filled with local people stepping forward to take part. Volunteering is how this carnival has survived and thrived, and we would love to see new faces joining us to carry it into the next 50 years.”
Based at The Vale, Global Grooves has previously worked on major events including the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, as well as projects linked to Bluedot Festival and Kendal Calling.
Leon Patel, CEO of Global Grooves, said: “For five decades, Stalybridge Carnival has been powered by volunteers. From costume makers to parade marshals, musicians to organisers, it has always been a community effort.
“This year, volunteering is not just part of the event. It is central to it. Carnival is about collective creativity. It is about ordinary people doing extraordinary things together in public space.
“We are proud to work with Stalybridge to mark this milestone year and to open up meaningful volunteering opportunities that combine heritage, creativity and community. You do not need experience. You just need the willingness to show up, learn and be part of something joyful.”
Community groups, schools and youth organisations are also being encouraged to get involved, with support available to help upgrade costumes and incorporate giant puppets or handmade flags into their parade entries.
The 50th anniversary parade will take place on Sunday, June 28, with rehearsals and training sessions running from March through to a full rehearsal on Saturday, June 27.
More information about volunteering opportunities and training dates is available via the Global Grooves website or by emailing hello@globalgrooves.org