Romsonians told the Advertiser they are “sad” at the potential loss and are convinced the wealthy Hampshire town has enough people to help.
Romsey Town Carnival & Lanterns announced it was facing a crisis over a lack of donations and volunteers after its Santa’s Fun Run on Sunday, December 22.
READ MORE: Romsey Carnival: Civil leaders speak out in support
Romsey town centre (Image: Charles Elliman) Vanessa Constable, a retired nurse from Bitterne, said: “Romsey is awash with people who have the means to help and it would be astonishing if there weren’t enough.
“It’s an affluent town,” said the former healthcare worker who asserted there should be enough people with free time to volunteer.
Another Romsey resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “That’s sad. All towns and villages should have a carnival – it brings people together.”
READ MORE: Romsey Carnival & Lanterns in danger of closing after 40 years
Retired Nurse Vanessa Constable, from Bitterne (Image: Charles Elliman) Anne Parsons, 66, the owner of Organised Living, from Fishlake, said: “Any community events should be supported as much as possible.”
The business owner suggested the schools and other groups, such as the Scouts, could help drum up volunteers and donations.
“It’s often oldies, like me, or people who are retired,” the 66-year-old who used to manage events for a national charity.
Owner of Organised Living, Anne Parsons, 66, from Fishlake (Image: Charles Elliman) Miriam Wallis, 38, a medic from Withy Close, Romsey, said: “I’d be against it closing, it’s been a positive experience for us as a family – my daughter attended it as a rainbow last year and had a great time.”
The medic was not a fan of the first post-pandemic carnival, stating it was rammed and chaotic, but said 2024’s was well organised.
The medic was not convinced by the organiser’s concerns about a lack of volunteers and said she, as well as other parents, helped them.
Medic Miriam Wallis, 38, from Withy Close, Romsey (Image: Charles Elliman) She said: “The parents were helping, so I don’t know what other helper helping is required.”
Gemma Gallagher, 38, from Love Lane, Romsey, said it was a real shame to hear that Romsey Town Carnival & Lanterns could stop.
The UX designer said: “It would be a shame if it closes, I’ve got two young kids who love going to that.”
Gemma, who is a fan of Romsey Beggars Fair, believed part of the town’s strength of character was its many events.
She said: “I think that’s one of the best things about Romsey – that there is so much going on. Everything that goes on, we’ll attend and, yeah, my kids really love it.
“It brings so many people to Romsey so I would’ve thought businesses would want to keep it on, if possible.”