Carnival performer injured after falling from cart

A carnival performer has been taken to hospital after falling from a cart during a street parade.

Police confirmed the person's injuries were not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing after the incident at Somerset's Shepton Mallet Carnival at about 20:40 GMT on Wednesday.

The procession was brought to a standstill for more than an hour while members of St John's Ambulance administered first aid.

Shepton Mallet Carnival organisers have been approached for a comment.

Rob Bayly, who was in the crowd when the parade suddenly ground to a halt, said the public did not know what had happened.

"Nothing was announced. People assumed a cart had broken down due to a mechanical fault," he said.

Mr Bayly said performers kept the crowd entertained and the atmosphere remained "pretty positive".

"When the procession finally got going, the Marketeers' float came by in complete silence out of respect for the person who had fallen off earlier," he added.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said the procession was temporarily held while care was provided.

They added: "We would like to thank members of the public and carnival participants for their patience and understanding."

A spokesperson for the Marketeers Carnival Club said: "During the annual Shepton Mallet Carnival on Wednesday, a performer on our entry 'Magic Garden' suffered a fall from the cart.

"Assessment and treatment was given on site and an ambulance was dispatched to transport them to a local medical facility where they received treatment and are now recovering.

"Marketeers would like to thank everyone who assisted with the emergency, to the public for their understanding, and the Carnival community for their kind words."

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