MANAGERS at a Dawlish pub have apologised for the behaviour of a team, claiming to be from the pub, which took part in the iconic carnival Pram Race. 

A statement from the Lansdowne in Park Road said the pram race team members had been ‘abusive and disrespectful’ to members of the carnival committee but also the police.

However, while the team had the name of the Lansdowne on their pram, they were not officially entered on behalf of the pub. 

A spokesman for Dawlish Celebrates Carnival said: ‘The volunteer carnival committee appreciate and accept the apology from the Lansdowne Pub. 

‘We would like to thank all the other entries who came and participated in the true spirit of carnival.’

The annual race, one of only a few such events in the country, otherwise went without a hitch.

Teams with home made ‘prams’ in elaborate fancy dress costumes raced the route through the town.

It is not know the nature of the incident which sparked the statement and police say there was no altercation. 

The statement from the Lansdowne said: ‘We are aware members of a pram team, who were purporting to represent the Lansdowne Pub, were abusive and disrespectful to, not only members of the carnival committee but also the police.

'While the pram race team were not officially entered on behalf of the Lansdowne, the pram did have the name of the pub on the side of it.

‘In the circumstances, we at the Lansdowne felt it was only appropriate to issue a heartfelt apology as we were genuinely appalled by such actions which are completely unacceptable and unwarranted. 

‘We apologise to the carnival committee, the police and any members of the public who were unfortunate enough to witness this unsavoury and distasteful behaviour.’

The statement added the Lansdowne has been an enthusiastic supporter of  the carnival for more than 25 years.

A police spokesman said: ‘The beat team has attended and supported Dawlish Carnival by assisting event management and stewards on the night in question. 

‘There has been no altercation and we continue to support what is an excellent community event.’