Old Basing and Lychpit Carnival 2026 is a resounding success

Returning on Saturday, June 20, the historic carnival kicked off with a ‘Toys Come Alive’ themed procession leading attendees to the recreation ground.

The carnival site saw crowds enjoying traditional carnival games, circus activities, craft and charity stores, archery, a climbing wall and performances.

Graham Merry, from the Carnival committee, said: “It’s been really good. We had a great procession, a really good turnout and good weather.

“It’s looking like everybody is enjoying themselves. It’s all come together and it looks really good.”

Opening the carnival were special guests Mary Oliver and Alan Turton, both local historians.

Mary said it was ‘an honour to be asked’ to be a part of the carnival.

This year’s carnival featured the Teddy Bear Hospital, run by the Oakley Stitchers CIC, featuring an MRI machine, CT scanner, X-Ray and a special surgical department for poorly teddies.

Caroline Worley, chief doctor at the Teddy Bear Hospital, said: “It's been going really well. We have had such good feedback; it’s done a lot of good for a lot of people. It’s an experience, a bit of fun.”

Throughout the day, audiences enjoyed performances from The Royal British Legion Band, Old Basing School Choir, Linguatastic Language School, Paul Jones Judo, Hounds of Morrigan and Sing Now Choir.

Sarah Bradley and her grandson Rafe, 2 (Image: Newsquest)

Sarah Bradley and her grandson Rafe, two, from Lychpit, had a great day at the carnival.

Sarah said: “We have been enjoying the games, that’s where Rafe won his lolly.

“It’s lovely, a huge turnout and it’s really good. There’s lots going on for everyone.”

Matt, Sue, Mark and Rosie Bailey were in high spirits at the carnival.

Matt Bailey, Sue Bailey, Mark Bailey and Rosie Bailey (Image: Newsquest)

Rosie, nine, took part in the parade with the Linguatastics, dressed as a linguabot. She said she really enjoyed the archery and managed to score an eight on her first try.

Sue said: “We come here every year, they went to the nursery school in the village and now are learning French so we’re here with the Linguatastics.”

Elphie, Alex, Lewis, Henry, Hannah and Liz (Image: Newsquest)

Liz, Hannah, Lewis, Henry, Alex and Elphie also enjoyed the day, with the family returning every year.

Henry, seven and Elphie, three, were in the procession with the Linguatastics.

Liz said: “They were giving out lots of soft toys to children along the way. We just love to see the children enjoying themselves.”

Dan, Maz, Albie, 5 and Nancy, 2 (Image: Newsquest)

Dan and Maz brought Albie, five, and Nancy, two, to the carnival. They said they have come to the carnival for the past six years, with Dan growing up in the village as a child.

Dan said: “We have been here many a time. It’s always a nice, easy day out.”