CHAIRMAN of Yarmouth Carnival, Chris Waddington, has stepped down after being involved in the event for nearly 50 years.

Chris, 77, has been chair for the last 15 years and, as well as the annual carnival, he organises five other charity events in the town ­— the pancake races, Easter duck race, fireworks' night, Christmas carols and the pensioners' Christmas party.

In 2017, he was awarded the freedom of Yarmouth by town mayor, Cllr Steve Cowley.

Chris said: "This is probably one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make.

"However, I believe it is high time that I hand over the reins to someone younger who can take it on.

"I have been involved with Yarmouth Carnival in some way or other for 48 years.

"It is largely due to the carnival that influenced my decision to retire to the town in 2002.

"We used to bring the family down to the harbour for carnival week on our boat.

"Yarmouth Carnival week was very special to the whole family, as it is to so many families today.

"I have been chairman for the past 15 years and now I want to retire and do a few things for myself before it's too late.

"I'm looking for someone to take over, so I urge committee member and friends to step forward. Please think about it.

"It has been an enormous privilege to help run the Carnival Committee and I have enjoyed almost every minute, it is so rewarding.

"Let's keep the carnival going forever."

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