Organisers of the Shepton Mallet and Glastonbury carnivals have expressed frustration over motorists' actions and public interference during last week's events, highlighting issues such as damaged road signs, reckless driving, and aggression towards volunteers.

The Shepton Mallet Carnival, part of the historic Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnival circuit, took place on Wednesday, 13 November. Organisers reported ongoing problems leading up to the event, with road closure signs on Cannards Grave Road being repeatedly tampered with. Cones and barriers were moved or damaged "on the hour every hour" since their installation.

In a statement shared on social media, Shepton organisers said: "We really can't believe what has been happening. Since putting the road closure in place on Cannards Grave Road, we have had numerous signs, barriers, and cones damaged or moved. Vehicles are driving in both directions; the road is not passable without using the pavement. This is why it is closed."

They explained that the road closure, legally authorised by Somerset Council, was implemented to protect the public and ensure the safety of carnival carts and pedestrians. Despite efforts to provide diversion signage, many drivers ignored the warnings, creating potentially dangerous situations.

"We need to appeal to people not to move, damage, or ignore the signs," they said. "They are there to keep both carts and pedestrians safe. We can't just replace the signs that get damaged; we don't have a never-ending supply of stock."

In Glastonbury, the final carnival of the Somerset circuit took place on Saturday, 16 November, attracting thousands of spectators to witness the illuminated procession. However, organisers voiced frustration at the actions of a minority of drivers, describing some as "aggressive" and highlighting incidents where volunteer marshals were reportedly "driven at and hit."

Hazel DeGregorio, Chairperson of Glastonbury Carnival, thanked supporters and volunteers but strongly criticised the behaviour of certain motorists. "What seriously spoils it for us as volunteers is the nature of some vehicle drivers," she said in a Facebook post.

She detailed cases where drivers parked illegally in no-parking zones, blocking emergency routes, and warned of the consequences. "A NO PARKING zone – legally applied clearway zone – clearly means there is a reason for it," she said. "If you needed medical assistance and we could not get support to you, thank these lovely ignorant drivers. DO NOT just dump your car because you are late or even early – it is not acceptable."

Hazel added: "The worst part was the very aggressive drivers at road closures. Three volunteer marshals got driven at and hit. Do you honestly think this is acceptable behaviour? We do not."

Avon and Somerset Police have acknowledged these incidents and are investigating reports of vandalism and aggressive driving. A spokesperson said: "We are aware of the issues raised by the carnival organisers and we urge the public to respect road closures and the instructions of event staff to ensure the safety of all attendees."

The organisers of both events have called for greater respect and understanding from the public, emphasising the importance of road closures and clearways to ensure safety. While the carnivals remain a cherished part of Somerset's cultural heritage, providing spectacular entertainment and raising money for local causes, these incidents have left a sour taste for those who worked tirelessly to bring the events to life.