The Ilminster Carnival was abruptly cancelled on Saturday evening after a suspected gas leak was detected along the procession route. The event, which traditionally features spectacular illuminated carts and attracts thousands of spectators, had been underway before safety concerns led to its premature end.
The first alert of the potential gas leak was received at 8.02pm. Marshals quickly established a 100-metre cordon around the affected area and summoned the fire service. Firefighters arrived within 18 minutes to assess the situation.
Following the discovery of the leak’s exact location, organisers engaged with emergency services and engineers to determine the next steps. With a growing crowd and a significant gap forming in the procession, the decision was made at 8.55pm to cancel the remaining portion of the carnival for safety reasons.
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An evacuation procedure was promptly implemented, prioritising the safety of entrants, spectators, volunteers, and emergency responders. The gas company carried out emergency repairs to a service pipe that had been compromised underground. While road closures were maintained initially, some roads were temporarily reopened to manage traffic flow before closing again to allow the safe completion of the procession by entries past the incident.
Entries that had not reached the top of East Street followed an alternate evacuation route via the Butts and Strawberry Bank. The carnival committee thanked the public for their patience and understanding throughout the evacuation process.
Due to the incomplete procession and evacuation, judging for the carnival entries has been suspended, with scores from this year’s event not counted. The committee expressed deep regret for the disappointment caused to participants who dedicated months preparing their entries and to all those who helped organise the carnival.
In a statement, the Ilminster Carnival Committee acknowledged the overwhelming support and kind messages received from the public, participants, and other carnival groups. They extended gratitude to the emergency services, the gas company, marshals, and volunteers who assisted during the incident.
Donation QR codes remain available for one more week, and local businesses will be asked to host collection buckets for anyone wishing to provide financial support.
Meanwhile, other groups affected by the cancellation have voiced concerns about the financial impact. The Devon Truck Show, which also participates annually, highlighted the extensive preparation and costs involved, including insurance, security, medical coverage, road management, and facilities. They emphasised that cancellation does not relieve the event organisers of these expenses.
The Devon Truck Show organisers have encouraged the public to consider supporting the Ilminster Carnival Committee through online donations, stressing the importance of community backing during this challenging time.