Maldon Carnival responds as former chairman admits child sex offences

Maldon Carnival Ltd says it has taken "significant steps" to strengthen safeguarding. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

The organisers of Maldon Carnival have issued a statement, after the former chairman admitted sexually assaulting a girl and possessing indecent images of children.

Robert Slight, of Wantz Road, Maldon, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday (August 19). He admitted possessing more than 1,300 indecent images of children, Essex Live reports.

A spokesperson for Maldon Carnival Ltd has since told Caroline Coastal the organisation is “aware” of reports concerning the former committee chairman.

In a statement, they said: “We wish to make it clear that this individual was formally removed from their position on 25 July 2022. Since that date, they have had no involvement or contact with Maldon Carnival Ltd.”

The current committee says it has taken “significant steps” to strengthen governance, safeguarding, and transparency.

“Our safeguarding, child protection, and code of conduct policies have been comprehensively reviewed and updated,” the spokesperson added.

“All chaperones and drivers engaged with the Carnival Court are required to hold enhanced DBS checks, while all chaperones also hold Paediatric First Aid certification and Level 2 Safeguarding training.”

Slight, 45, has reportedly denied two counts of fraud, which allege he created a fake email address for a safeguarding officer to give to members of Maldon Carnival, and that he had an enhanced DBS to allow him to "chaperone" children.

In 2023, a former carnival committee member was arrested over allegations relating to financial crime, along with the safeguarding of children.

Maldon Carnival says its accounts are independently audited and formally submitted to HMRC annually, to ensure “full financial accountability”.

The spokesperson added: “Maldon Carnival Ltd remains committed to the highest standards of safety, protection, and integrity.

“The committee continues to work diligently to ensure that everyone representing the Carnival is safeguarded and that the event continues to reflect the values of trust, community, and tradition.”

Slight reportedly denies the sexual assault of a child under 13, along with meeting a child for sexual grooming.

He previously admitted the sexual assault of a girl and possession of indecent images in the Magistrates' Court on July 22, Essex Live reports.

A trial date has been set for the remaining charges for 23 February 2026, at Chelmsford Crown Court.

The case continues.