A FUNERAL director has stepped in to save a 122-year-old carnival that was about to be consigned to the history books.

Paul Capper, from Eastleigh, has donated more than £4,000 to preserve the town’s much-loved tradition.

The procession is at the heart of the annual event, which attracts thousands of people with bands, talent shows, performing dogs, sandcastle competitions and a teddy bears’ picnic.

Jeopardy However, in the past few years spiralling overheads have put the event in jeopardy and when it was hit with a steep insurance bill, Eastleigh Carnival Association (ECA) decided to pull the plug on the parade which aims to raise money for local charities.

The cash from Paul Capper Funeral Directors will cover the insurance costs and pay for a marquee and hospitality for guests and dignitaries.

ECA chairman Penny Halford, who has not missed the event in 57 years, said: “At the last meeting we had all decided we were going to have to cancel the procession but now, thanks to the money from Paul and the support we get from other businesses, this will go ahead.

“It would be desperately sad to see this tradition die out as it is helps promote community spirit and brings people to the town which helps the economy.”

She went on to praise Angela’s Holidays and Fahrenheit 420 which already support the nine-day carnival that starts on August 15.

Paul said: “My profession is involved with all the sad things in life which is why we support charities and try and make a difference to people’s lives however large or small.

“That’s why we decided to focus on the carnival which is not just one night but a whole week of fun for young and old alike.”

For more information or to support the carnival call Penny on 07702 833854.