AS the first of the big spectator events in Pewsey Carnival fortnight, the Wine Race, takes place on Thursday an appeal has gone out for volunteers to help marshal not only the wine race but also next week’s Wheelbeero Race and the carnival procession itself on Saturday September 19.

Chief steward Craig Thompson said there was a desperate need for more marshalls to help the events go ahead safely.

Mr Marshall said that traditionally a group of people from the Newbury area had volunteered to augment the local marshalls but he added: “This year they are all tied up with the Great Berkshire Show so they have apologised and said they will not be able to come to Pewsey.

Having adequate marshalls for all the events was not only necessary for safety but also to comply with the legal requirement that all carnival activities are adequately stewarded, Mr Thompson said.

He said being a marshal was not an onerous job, quite enjoyable in fact, and that full instruction was given before each event.

Volunteers are asked to be at the Bouverie Hall at 6pm on Thursday for the wine race; 6pm next Thursday for the Wheelbeero Race and 6pm again on the night of the procession, Saturday September 19.

For more information call Mr Thompson 077 222 97154.