The life and times of Whitstable legend Peter Cushing will be the theme of the town’s carnival on Saturday, with participants encouraged to dress up as the characters he played in his many famous films.
The late actor, who starred in numerous Hammer House of Horror movies as well as Sherlock Holmes and Star Wars, first bought a holiday home in Whitstable in the late 1950s before moving in permanently in 1968.
He was a familiar sight in the town and remains its “most honoured resident” following his death in 1994.
“When the theme of this year’s carnival was up for deliberation, Peter Cushing was the standout winner, particularly as he lived the latter part of his life in Whitstable,” said carnival committee chairman Aurelia de Rocha.
“To celebrate his life will be an honour, and no doubt, offer many costume and float opportunities.”
Schoolchildren have also been involved, especially at Swalecliffe Community School, where pupils have been creating carnival posters and even Frankenstein ‘heads’ made from cardboard.
The historic carnival, which dates back to 1897, remains a firm favourite in the community calendar but the carnival committee is appealing for more support, both practical and financial, to keep it going.
“Whitstable Carnival doesn’t just happen”, says Ms de Rocha.
“There’s no fairy godmother waving a wand, no magical seagulls swooping in to organise it.
“It’s the result of a small but mighty team of volunteers who pour their time, energy, and love into making it a highlight of the year. But we need more hands on deck.
“The carnival isn’t just about floats and costumes – it’s about community.
“It’s a celebration of everything that makes Whitstable special, from our creativity to our sense of togetherness. But without volunteers, there’s no carnival.”
As well as an appeal for more volunteers, the committee is urging residents to buy a £2 copy of the souvenir programme, featuring Peter Cushing, to help offset the £8,000 cost of putting on the event.
They will also be selling face masks of Peter Cushing – whose name also adorns the town’s Wetherspoon pub – and £1 bags of 10p coins, so spectators will find it easier to make cash donations in the collection buckets.
The parade, which features more than 40 entries, will assemble in Pier Avenue and Northwood Road before setting off at 5.30pm.
It will travel along Tankerton Road, Tower Parade, Harbour Street, High Street, Oxford Street and Canterbury Road to Saddleton Road, where it will disperse.
The procession usually takes about two hours and there will be road closures on all adjoining roads.
It will again feature the beloved carnival guardian Sam the Giant as well as dozens of colourful floats and walking entries.
For more information about the event or how to support the carnival, visit www.whitstablecarnival.co.uk.
