Entertainment
Kent’s Summer Carnivals Ignite Community Spirit and Joy

Summer has arrived in Kent, and with it, the vibrant carnival season is bringing communities together through a series of lively parades and events. These annual celebrations have become a cherished part of the county’s summer calendar, providing an opportunity for families and friends to enjoy colourful floats, music, and festive atmosphere. Here is a guide to some of the most anticipated carnivals taking place across Kent this year.
Celebrations in Deal and Dover
In Deal, the carnival festivities extend beyond a single event. The organising team has planned an exciting week of activities, culminating in the grand parade. This year’s celebrations will include fireworks displays, beach parties, and raft races, leading up to the parade on July 31 at 18:00. The procession will begin at The Strand in Walmer and travel to Sandown, featuring marching bands and street dancers.
Dover is set to host an expanded carnival this year, featuring a longer route that starts from the Maison Dieu car park. This year’s Miss Dover Town, Hannah Caldwell, will lead the carnival court. The parade, scheduled for August 10 at 16:00, promises to showcase local schools, youth clubs, costumed characters, classic cars, and cheerleaders.
Autumn Festivities and Coastal Celebrations
Faversham will host its carnival later in the season, transforming the historic town into an illuminated street party on October 11 at 18:30. Attendees can expect a dazzling display of illuminated floats, live music, dancers, and even gymnasts, all contributing to a festive atmosphere.
Herne Bay is gearing up for a fun-filled day on August 9 at 18:00. The carnival day will include a street art competition, a “Kids Got Talent” show, and live music at the Clocktower Plaza. The evening will be capped off with a spectacular fireworks display over the seafront, following the colourful parade featuring carnival courts and children’s entertainment.
Margate’s parade is known for infusing a taste of Rio de Janeiro into the beachside event. Set for August 3 at 14:30, the festivities will include extravagant costumes, samba dancers, steel bands, and street performers, promising an energetic and vibrant experience for all.
Sheerness, Sittingbourne, and Whitstable Highlights
In Sheerness, the carnival parade is part of the larger Seaside Festival Week, which features a variety of family-friendly activities such as treasure hunts and live entertainment. This year’s procession, set for August 16 at 16:00, will showcase decorated bikes, vintage vehicles, cosplayers, and local businesses, enhancing the community spirit of the event.
Sittingbourne’s carnival has chosen the beloved musical *Wicked* as its theme for this year, celebrating its phenomenal box office success. On August 24 at 13:00, attendees can look forward to seeing floats inspired by the Emerald City and Munchkinland, along with participants dressed as characters from the show.
Whitstable’s carnival, which has been a tradition for 128 years, will honour actor and former resident Peter Cushing, known for his roles in *Doctor Who*, *Frankenstein*, and *Star Wars*. The event, scheduled for August 2 at 17:30, will feature children’s artwork celebrating the film actor and themed floats, adding a nostalgic touch to the festivities.
As Kent’s summer carnivals unfold, they offer residents and visitors alike an opportunity to revel in the creativity, talent, and community spirit that these events embody. Each carnival not only showcases local talent but also fosters connections among attendees, creating lasting memories for all.
Entertainment
Crowds Flock to Preston Live Festival for Stellar Performances

Hundreds of music fans gathered in Preston, United Kingdom, on September 30, 2023, for the much-anticipated one-day event of the Preston Live music festival. The festival featured performances from popular artists, including Ella Henderson and Tinchy Stryder, captivating attendees with their energetic sets.
Despite the festival being scaled back from its usual multi-day format, the turnout was impressive. Fans enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, food stalls, and various entertainment options. The event showcased a broad range of musical talent, appealing to diverse tastes and age groups.
Highlights of the Day
The day was marked by standout performances that left the audience thrilled. Ella Henderson, known for her powerful vocals, delivered a dynamic set that included hits like “Ghost” and “Yours.” Her connection with the crowd was palpable, as fans sang along to every word.
Following her, Tinchy Stryder took the stage, bringing his unique blend of hip-hop and pop to the festival. His high-energy performance energized the crowd, with many attendees dancing and cheering throughout his set. The synergy between the artists and the audience created an unforgettable experience.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The successful turnout at Preston Live highlights the community’s enthusiasm for live music events, even in a more condensed format. Local businesses also benefited from the influx of visitors, with many restaurants and shops reporting increased traffic during the festival.
Organizers expressed optimism about the future of the festival, indicating plans to return to a multi-day format in subsequent years. The positive reception from attendees and the local community suggests there is a strong demand for such events in Preston.
Overall, the festival not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community, bringing people together through the universal language of music. As Preston Live wraps up this year’s event, both organizers and fans look forward to what lies ahead in future editions.
Entertainment
Tina O’Brien and Adam Fadlé Share Passionate Moment at Wedding

Tina O’Brien was seen in a joyful moment with her new boyfriend, Adam Fadlé, as they left the wedding of fellow actor Jack P. Shepherd and his partner Hanni Treweek. The couple, who were photographed sharing a passionate kiss in the early hours of Sunday, July 28, 2025, appeared to be deeply in love as they exited the Manchester venue.
The 41-year-old actress, known for her role in the long-running soap opera *Coronation Street*, looked radiant in a blue and white floral dress that featured a daring plunging neckline. She paired the outfit with pink heels and a chic white handbag. Fadlé, 38, complemented her style in a smart navy suit and white shirt. The couple’s affectionate display included kissing while waiting for a taxi to take them back to their hotel in Manchester.
Reports indicate that O’Brien and Fadlé met through mutual friends in their home town of Cheshire earlier this summer. Their relationship blossomed following O’Brien’s split from her husband of seven years, Adam Crofts. A source close to the actress shared, “Tina fell out of love with one Adam and then fell in love with another,” suggesting that the couple has been quite open about their romance.
At the wedding ceremony, which took place at Manchester Cathedral, O’Brien and Fadlé were seen holding hands and smiling as they celebrated the union of Shepherd and Treweek. Their relationship seems to have progressed quickly, as they have been spotted together multiple times, including walking O’Brien’s dog.
Fadlé is the founder of Panoramic Properties, a successful interior design firm that counts high-profile clients such as football stars Paul Pogba and Cristiano Ronaldo. He established his company in 2010, and since then, it has gained recognition for its luxury residential designs. According to financial documents, Panoramic Properties now boasts over £554,000 in assets, reflecting Fadlé’s rising status in the industry.
O’Brien’s previous marriage to Crofts, with whom she shares a ten-year-old son named Beau, reportedly ended amicably as they continue to prioritize their child’s well-being. Friends of the couple have noted that while they maintain a good relationship for the sake of their son, their differing lifestyles played a significant role in their separation.
As O’Brien and Fadlé continue to explore their relationship, they appear to be embracing this new chapter in their lives with enthusiasm. Fadlé’s growing success in interior design, along with O’Brien’s established career in television, positions them as a notable couple in both the entertainment and business sectors.
Entertainment
Gosport Celebrates Grand Opening of For Bakes Sake Bakery

The coastal town of Gosport welcomed a new addition to its culinary scene with the grand opening of For Bakes Sake on October 14, 2023. The bakery, supported by entrepreneur Simon Squibb and his initiative, Dream Machine, aims to bring quality baked goods to the local community, and the turnout on opening day was impressive.
Residents flocked to the bakery to sample a variety of fresh treats, from artisanal bread to decadent pastries. The atmosphere was lively, with families and friends gathering to celebrate the launch of what many hope will become a beloved local establishment. Attendees expressed excitement about the new offerings, which they believe will enhance the town’s vibrant food culture.
Community Support and Vision
Simon Squibb, a well-known figure in the entrepreneurial community, emphasized the importance of local support in making For Bakes Sake a reality. “It’s been a remarkable journey,” he remarked during the opening celebrations. “We wanted to create a space that not only serves delicious baked goods but also fosters a sense of community.” His vision is to not only provide high-quality products but also to create job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth.
The bakery features a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Customers praised the quality of the ingredients and the creativity behind the recipes. Many were eager to support a business that prioritizes local sourcing and sustainable practices.
Looking Ahead
As the first customers enjoyed their freshly baked goods, plans for future events were already in the works. For Bakes Sake aims to host community gatherings, workshops, and seasonal celebrations, further solidifying its role as a hub for local engagement. The bakery’s commitment to enhancing the community experience is evident in its mission to collaborate with local artisans and suppliers.
The enthusiasm surrounding the opening of For Bakes Sake reflects a broader trend in Gosport, where residents are increasingly supporting local businesses. With the backing of initiatives like Dream Machine, the bakery is poised to become a cornerstone of the town’s gastronomic landscape.
As the sun set on the opening day, it was clear that For Bakes Sake is not just a new bakery; it represents the collective hopes of a community eager for growth and connection. With strong local support and a clear vision, the future looks bright for this new establishment.
Entertainment
Alex Jones Unaware of Complaints Against Co-Host Jermaine Jenas

Alex Jones has publicly expressed her surprise regarding the allegations against her former co-host, Jermaine Jenas, on The One Show. Jenas was dismissed by the BBC in August 2025 following reports of sending inappropriate messages to female staff members during his tenure at the organization. This scandal not only led to his exit from the show but also resulted in the end of his 13-year marriage to Ellie Penfrold, the mother of three of his four children.
Revelations and Reaction
In an interview with The Big Issue, Jones stated, “I very much take people on face value. But with JJ, I didn’t know what was going on. I thought he was taking extended leave.” Her comments reflect her shock at the situation, as she was previously unaware of any complaints made against Jenas.
Jenas, 42, faced significant professional repercussions as a result of the allegations. In addition to being removed from The One Show, he lost roles on both Match of the Day and BBC Radio 5 Live. The network confirmed its decision while he was guest hosting a show on talkSPORT.
During the fallout, Jenas’s agency, MC Saatchi, severed ties with him, prompting him to hire a crisis public relations team to manage the consequences of the scandal. Jenas disclosed that he had deceived his wife by sneaking off during a family holiday to take a call with BBC executives regarding the allegations.
Personal Impact and Reflection
Jenas’s marriage faced severe strain following the revelations. He admitted to Ellie that he had sent inappropriate messages to female colleagues, leading her to ask him to leave their home in Hertfordshire. He noted, “The reality is, me and my wife haven’t split up because I sent some text messages to some people at work. We had issues for a period of time, it all comes to a head and you eventually make a decision.” This acknowledgment highlights that the issues within their relationship were not solely based on his misconduct.
In a candid moment during an interview with The Sun, Jenas described the current state of his home life, saying, “It’s just about the children right now. It’s the school holidays and they’re trapped in the house because photographers are outside my house.” He emphasized the need for responsibility, stating he had apologized to his family for the turmoil caused by his actions.
As the situation continues to evolve, both Jenas and Jones reflect on the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior in the workplace. Jones concluded her remarks by saying, “If that was my daughter and she felt uncomfortable with someone’s behaviour, I hope that whatever company she was working for would deal with it swiftly as well.” Her comments resonate in the broader context of workplace accountability and the imperative for organizations to foster safe environments.
With the implications of this scandal unfolding, the focus remains on the impact on all individuals involved, including the children of Jenas and Penfrold, who are now navigating the aftermath of their parents’ separation.
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