Return of carnival to Lye High Street hailed a success

Performers including the famous Dancing Grannies and Bhangra Smash Up took to the stage, hosted by Black Country Radio, outside Christ Church in Lye High Street as the town played host to its first community carnival in 20-plus years.

The event, which brought the High Street to life with market stalls and walkabout acts, on Sunday September 15, was made possible thanks to funding from the Government, West Midlands Combined Authority and Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund.

The family-fun day also included fairground rides and face-painting for little ones.

Jody Pritchard, public health manager at Dudley Council who was involved with the organising of the event, said: “Despite the rain it was a fantastic day and very well supported.

“People said they enjoyed the entertainment including the Dancing Grannies, Rufford Primary School choir, Roma dancing, Bhangra Smash Up, Zimbabwean drummers, Paul Willmott children’s entertainer, mascots - Bluey and Spider Man, music, market stalls and activities.

"Archery was particularly popular and the activities inside Christ Church - local history, refreshments, tour of the bell tower, and it was so good to see the diverse community in the street together having fun.

People celebrate the return of Lye Carnival after an absence of more than two decades (Image: Kelly Hadley / K Visual Art)

“The residents, members of voluntary groups and local businesses worked really hard to make it a success and are already starting to talk about how to make next year’s event even bigger and better.”

Lye trader and community campaigner Gary Farmer, who works tirelessly to keep Lye High Street clean, said on Facebook: “Many thanks to the committee for their hard work in organising our first carnival in 24 years.”

He said there was a “fantastic turnout” - adding: “The rain did not dampen anyone's spirits.

“The community were great and seemed to enjoy what was on. Hopefully next year will be bigger.”

Former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb at Lye Carnival with her dog Sid (Image: Suzanne Webb)

Former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb said on her Facebook page: “What was not to love.

“I hope this carnival comes back in 2025.

“The community was buzzing and the organisers rightly proud.”

Members of the public also praised the event saying it brought the community together and they hoped it would be the first of many.