MERRIOTT Majorettes say they are disgusted at comments allegedly made by spectators while they took part in Chard Carnival on Saturday.

Instructor Juliet Mckelvey claims the young performers (pictured) were subjected to abuse on three occasions from groups of spectators.

She said: "We were booed at, jeered at and we heard shouts of obscenities, and were called cheats.

"We also heard shouts of 'copycats' saying we'd copied Chard Goldstars' routines.

"We've been a troupe for almost ten years and we have no need or desire to copy anyone.

"At the end of the carnival we had to deal with several of our girls in tears and some angry parents.

"This spoilt what otherwise would have been a brilliant night."

Fellow instructor Sarah Foley said: "I feel this behaviour is unjustified.

"People are always moaning about yobbish behaviour of the youth of today - well, what do they expect when this is what they see as the norm from adults?

"The girls, trainers and helpers in our troupe do majorettes for fun, not payment.

"It helps keep them off the streets and gives them a little discipline.

"It makes you wonder why you bother, doesn't it?"

Chard Carnival Committee's chairman Nigel Tinley said: "I'm in complete agreement that carnival entrants of all types, whether majorettes or contestants, should be respected for the work they put in.

"They shouldn't have to go through verbal abuse.

"I didn't hear anything and none of the committee has mentioned that this occurred.

"I'm disappointed that it has happened in our town."