The National Cultural Foundation’s announcement of two starting points for this year’s Grand Kadooment is getting general support from band leaders, though not everyone likes the idea.

The NCF has disclosed that the police have given approval for the change following talks with the NCF and the Barbados Association of Masqueraders.

Bands have the option of starting from Warrens or the Botanical Gardens with the route then proceeding as usual to the Mighty Grynner Highway via the Frank Worrell Roundabout at the bottom of University Hill.

President of the Barbados Association of Masqueraders and Band leaders Chetwin Stewart is in favour of the move.

But veteran bandleader Gwyneth Squires, a many times winner of the designer of the year trophy isn’t totally sold on having two starting points.

Meantime, both veteran band leaders Chetwin Stewart and Gwyneth Squires are reporting a fall-off in local participation in Grand Kadooment Bands. Mr. Stewart believes money is the key factor.

Mr. Squires says that as far as she knows all of the bands are reporting that registration of revellers is slower than last year. She agrees that money is a key factor but also believes fear of violence could also play a part.

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