COUNCILLORS were left somewhat shocked at how much it would cost to put up some staging for invited dignitaries to watch this year’s Wellington Carnival.

The annual carnival will weave its way through the town centre on September 30, so the big night is fast approaching.

The Mayor, Cllr Marcus Barr, has proposed that he invites up to 50 dignitaries and guests to the town to enjoy the procession.

But members of Wellington Town Council’s town centre committee were uncomfortable when faced with a quote for putting up an uncovered tiered stage in front of the Old Post Office, in High Street.

Cllr Mark Lithgow said: “We always used to do this back in the day, but it does seem a lot of money to spend on what are basically three benches - £740 plus VAT, it seems steep to me.”

Councillors agreed that they should look at alternative spectator arrangements for the mayor’s guests on carnival night.

Meanwhile, councillors agreed to spend up to £500 on a light buffet and drinks for a reception being planned by the mayor for his guests ahead of the carnival procession.

But they were concerned that the council had only received one quote for providing the refreshments, from Odette’s Tea Room, which is owned by former Wellington deputy mayor Cllr Nancy Powell-Brace

Cllr Janet Lloyd said: “I think it does seem a bit incestuous that we have only got a quote from Odette’s Tea Room which is run by Nancy, who is a member of this committee and a town councillor.

“I think we should have three quotes rather than just go straight to Odette’s.

“I support this and I propose a budget of £500, but I think we need to get some more quotes.”

A final decision on the recommendations will be made at the town council’s monthly meeting on Monday (September 4).