Bermondsey Carnival has been a staple of southeast London since 1900. But last May, its modern organiser Russell Dryden sadly passed away. Southwark News spoke to the carnival’s new torch-bearer Jake Farey, who will be continuing Russell’s great work.
“I got to know Russ through his love of music, the 41-year-old said, adding: “The special thing about Bermondsey Carnival is that it’s Southwark’s oldest carnival, going for over 100 years and that it’s in Bermondsey. This is still a special place to a lot of people.”
Since establishing Bermondsey Social Club in 2015, Jake has become increasingly involved in local life. His venue has become home to nights like ‘You Make Me Feel Like Dancing’ promoted by Andy Marston, mostly attended by old-school Bermondsey folk, have been a big hit. He also launched Peckham Audio nightclub before the pandemic and has held Southwark Council events at the social club.
Having been in the music industry for seventeen years, setting up a series of Europe-wide heavy rock festivals, and working with bands including Mumford and Sons and The Maccabees, he’s looking forward to turning his hand to Bermondsey Carnival.
“My knowledge of this carnival before the pandemic was pretty limited but before Russ passed away we got a lot of feedback that something was missing,” he said, adding: “It needed to evolve and Russ was conscious of the evolving state of the area.” Working closely with Russ, and using his industry connections, Jake introduced Rally Festival to Russ and the relationship blossomed from there.
This coup has been key to keeping Bermondsey Carnival alive after a fall in council funding post-pandemic. So this year, visitors will be treated to Bermondsey Carnival’s most eclectic selection of music yet. There will be two stages; the main stage and a brand-new 250-capacity tent.
As well as the carnival’s usual selection of old-school rock bands, the main stage will feature renowned R&B artist Shola Ama, joined by DJ G-Small and 2 Ton. The lively disco group The Wild Violets will also perform, followed by the Aboriginal reggae from No Fixed Address and world music from Tajabones.
In the tent stage, Noel from Bermondsey Radio will kick off the show with a mix of soul, motown, and more. Later, electronic music will take over with legends such as Nancy Noise playing out. There are also plans to honour Russell Dryden with a special tribute set performed by his friends.
Families can also expect kids’ entertainment, arts and crafts tents, football coaching from Ballers Academy, boxing with Roosters Boxing Club, pilates sessions and more.
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Bermondsey Carnival would like to say a special thank you to its sponsors who have made this event possible: Greystar, Rotherhithe CC, Elkins, The Blue Bermondsey BID, Southwark Council, British Land, Art Invest and F.A. Albin & Sons Also to Big Local Works, Ballers Academy, Bermondsey Social Club, Community Southwark, Southwark Park Gallery and Southwark Park Association 1869 for their support and all they offer to the community.
Bermondsey Carnival will take place in Southwark Park from 1pm until 8pm on Monday, August 26.
For more information email [email protected] or go to their website www.bermondseycarnival.com
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I normally attend the carnival but the line up of music this year is not my taste so I will give it a miss. Hope next year will be better.