Carnival returns in spectacular fashion

CARNIVAL returned to Newquay in spectacular fashion on Saturday.

Newquay Lions Community Carnival staged a ‘Carnival by the Coast’ themed event, which showcased 35 entries parading through the town centre bringing colour, music, and community spirit to the streets of the town centre.

Crowds lined the streets to watch the procession go by, which got underway at Fore Street and made its way through the high street finishing at Narrowcliff.

Among those taking part included Newquay Samba Band, Newquay Primary Academy, Newquay Hospital League of Friends, Newquay Women’s Institute, Bishops Learning Academy, Newquay RNLI and Phil Trebilcock riding his vintage tractor.

The much‑loved Newquay Carnival Mile Race made a welcome return starting outside The Fort Inn in Fore Street ahead of the procession setting off. The revived one‑mile dash organised with the help of Newquay Road Runners saw more than 50 runners taking part.

The race was won by Jacob Gardner of Hayle Runners, who crossed the finish line in an impressive four minutes 37 seconds. Ben Eisenkolb, Perranporth, finished second in four minutes 40 seconds, with fellow Hayle Runners athlete Daniel Costello taking third place in four minutes and 46 seconds.

The women’s race was equally competitive, with Tamara Beach of Cornwall AC finishing as first female in fourth place overall in four minutes and 54 seconds. Grace Leyland of Herne Hill Harriers was the second woman home in five minutes and six seconds while Stephanie Hutton of Cornwall AC completed the women’s podium in five minutes and 23 seconds.

Adding a touch of nostalgia to the occasion were two former winners of the original Carnival Mile. Darren Varker, now aged 53, finished in a six minutes and 16 seconds, while 55-year-old Chris McQuillen-Wright, another previous champion, completed the course pushing his adult daughter Rosey Gregory in a wheelchair in seven minutes and 21 seconds, repeating their last outing in this years London Marathon.

Alistair McKenna, chair of the Newquay Carnival Committee, said: “The Newquay Lions Community Carnival delivered its biggest and most successful event yet.

“Building on the success of last year, the 2026 carnival stepped up to a whole new level, with Newquay Road Runners Carnival mile with over 40 runners.

“The carnival procession set off with more than 35 fantastic parade entries bringing colour, creativity and community spirit to the streets of Newquay. From local groups and businesses to charities and performers, the parade showcased the very best of Cornwall by the Coast.”

The Newquay Road Runners Carnival mile course was slightly different from the one used more than three decades ago. Runners embraced the challenge and spectators lining the route enjoyed an entertaining start to carnival day.

Newquay Road Runners lead coach Paul Wright said: “It was fantastic to see the Carnival Mile return after so many years. The standard at the front of the field was excellent, but just as importantly the event brought together runners of all ages and abilities to be part of Newquay Carnival.”

Race director Colin Martin added: “The support from spectators was tremendous and Newquay Road Runners were delighted to work alongside Newquay Lions Club to help bring the race back.”

The revival of the Carnival Mile formed part of Newquay Lions Club’s commitment to celebrating the town’s sporting heritage while adding a fresh attraction to the carnival programme. Organisers hope the success of this year’s race will see it become a regular feature of Newquay Carnival for years to come.

Mr McKenna said: “A huge thank you goes to all of our carnival sponsors for 2026. Without the incredible support of Newquay’s businesses, we simply couldn’t have made this year’s carnival bigger and better than ever. Their generosity and commitment to the community helped make this celebration possible.

“A thank you must also go out to all of our volunteers who support us on the committee and marshalling. We had people travel from all over the county to support us. Without their dedication, this event simply couldn’t happen.

“A huge well done to all of our successful winners of our four classes which I'm sure will grow next year.

“With an estimated crowd of over 1,000 spectators, the committee would also like to extend its heartfelt thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate Carnival by the Coast. The fantastic atmosphere created by the community made the day truly memorable.

“Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event, planning is already underway for the 2027 Newquay Lions Community Carnival.

“The committee would like to thank everyone who took part, volunteered, sponsored, performed, or came along to support the event.”

A spokesperson for Newquay Primary Academy said: “A huge thank you to our families, friends of Newquay Primary Academy, and staff members who joined us to celebrate Newquay Carnival.

“It was a fantastic turnout for Newquay Primary Academy, and the children looked amazing in their fancy dress costumes. We are incredibly proud of all our children who proudly carried the Newquay Primary Academy float along the carnival route.”

Pictures in the video by Carolyn and Kelly Oakley/Images Photography