IF the hundreds of people stood along the city streets on Bank Holiday Monday demonstrated one thing, it was this - Worcester wants its carnival back.

As I joined the ranks of people lining Foregate Street and High Street as the rain drizzled down it was great to see families all together for the carnival once again.

Mums and dads, children on their parent's shoulders were joined by their grandparents, no doubt all looking forward to reminiscing about the celebrations of yesteryear.

But obviously this year's event did not live up to expectations.

It's a shame to see so many negative comments on the Worcester News Facebook page and online story because what was there was very good.

It was just a bit, well, short.

Worcestershire Recycling Exchange did a fantastic job from their costumes to their dancing and those amazing skeleton puppets.

The two little girls dressed as Disney princesses were in their element and the Navy Training Corps looked super smart.

Okay, as an adult, I enjoyed the zombie patrol and thought they were good fun but I can see how their gruesome costumes and exuberant performance may have upset little children.

But it is not fair to lay the blame at the feet of those who took part or those who put their head on the chopping block by organising it.

And there is equally no point in moaning about what could have been but it is clear lessons need to be learned when the carnival returns next year bigger and better, as organiser Malvin Hobbs promised.

Having reported on the carnival from the initial idea last year through to standing on the pavement watching the procession pass, I can vouch for how much effort has been put in.

But several things obviously need to improve.

Firstly, communication.

It became clear reading the comments on Facebook that many people had wanted to get involved but were not given enough information in time to take part.

Also, those wishing to watch the parade had trouble finding out details.

In the run up, carnival should be all over Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Secondly, a longer route and more walking groups and perhaps a clearer theme running throughout.

But the committee for this year's event was just Malvin and two others - it needs to be much bigger to be a success.

So let's start the planning for carnival 2016 on a positive foot.

It would be great if those businesses, groups and organisations which lodged their initial interest can get back on board.

Those who are complaining, join the committee and get involved.

And let's hope that all those who came and stood alongside myself in the drizzle make the same effort next year.

It is just a pity we can't book the sun in advance.

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